Indian Ridge Marsh Restoration

Michels Pipeline Construction worked with People’s Gas and Light to replace a valve and construct a station within the 122nd and 123rd Street right-of-ways within the Indian Ridge Marsh. Our environmental team ensured replacement of the existing gas line, valve, and station installation was completed without interruption to the highly-sensitive natural area.

The location of the proposed gas line is part of the Calumet Open Space Reserve and a USACE restoration. The Indian Ridge Marsh is home to the state-endangered Blanding’s Turtle, requiring extensive coordination with local agencies to ensure protection during construction. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Illinois Department of Natural Resources required daily inspections of the work site for the Blanding’s Turtle, signage posted throughout the work area, as well as training for all workers on site.

A 36” high pressure natural gas pipe was replaced within the 123rd Street right-of-way, and required restoration with native trees and seed per the USACE permit. The valve installed at 122nd Street also required restoration with 18,000 native plants. HLR’s environmental team coordinated with the USACE and received permit closure in December 2015.

HLR also provided environmental inspection during construction to ensure soil erosion and sediment control compliance. Inspections of soil sediment and erosion control installation and maintenance along the entire corridor, were conducted weekly and/or within 24-hours of a 0.5-inch rain event.