Q1: Why is this project necessary?
At Questar Gas, we are committed to providing safe, reliable natural gas service at the lowest possible cost.

In recent years, as part of our continuing efforts to meet growing demand for natural gas while improving overall system integrity, we have begun replacing vital sections of our underground pipeline system serving the Wasatch Front. In most cases we are replacing older pipe with newer, stronger and larger diameter pipe.

These new pipelines carry more supplies, enabling us to better serve the growing number of new homes and businesses in Utah.

They also enhance safety and reliability by making our system easier to monitor and maintain. Some of the older sections of our system have pipe in varying diameters, ranging from six to 20 inches. Replacing these with pipe of the same diameter makes them accessible to “smart tools. These tools -- commonly known as “pigs” -- use MRI technology to inspect the pipe interior, making it possible to detect and correct potential problems before they occur.

Q2: How long will it take?
Construction began in the Hunter Park neighborhood of West Valley City in late November 2007. The entire project is scheduled to be completed with the new pipe tested and in service by December 2008. To complete the project as quickly as possible, several crews, or “spreads,” will work at different locations simultaneously. Spread locations and schedules were devised where possible to accommodate municipal infrastructure improvements as well as UDOT highway projects. Works zones can range in length from a single intersection to several blocks. At any one location the amount of time needed to cut pavement, remove old pipe, install new pipe and replace asphalt can last from several days to several weeks.

Q3: Will my natural gas service be affected by construction?
No. Redundancies in Questar Gas’s system should make it possible to replace the existing pipeline without interrupting service to any customers.

Q4: Will construction affect my property?
The majority of construction will occur on 3300 South and 3500 South and not directly on private property. (If you live, work, drive or own a business on these streets, see the next question for information on how construction will affect you.) Some property located on or adjacent to our right-of-way running diagonally from 6680 West 3500 South to 9180 West and 2400 South will be affected by construction. If your property is on or adjacent to the right-of-way, you will receive a prior notice by mail alerting you to construction.

Questar Gas works closely with residents and city officials to minimize potential impacts on residents’ property. If to access its legal right-of-way Questar Gas does need to work on or near your property, the company will make reasonable efforts to ensure the landscape is returned as closely as possible to its previous state. This does not include replacement, repair or compensation for unauthorized structures, plants, objects and etc. currently located within the right-of-way.

Residents can make the process easier by making sure that items such as large, deep-rooted trees, concrete slabs, sheds, fences or other structures do not encroach upon Questar Gas’s right-of-way. These items not only violate right-of-way policy but also pose a safety hazard and may hinder the company’s ability to reach its pipeline in emergencies or to perform necessary maintenance.

For more information about what is and is not allowed on pipeline rights-of-way, request a company brochure by contacting a Questar Gas representative at (801) 324-3149 or view the brochure online at www.questargas.com .

Q5. Will streets be closed or access to private driveways restricted during construction?
Since most construction will occur on 3300 South and 3500 South, it will be necessary to temporarily close lanes and/or reroute traffic. Questar Gas intends to maintain traffic in both directions at all times, however temporary lane restrictions and can be expected.

Private driveways and access to side streets may also occasionally be blocked by excavation work. When not in use, open trenches will be plated to maintain access during business hours, at night and on weekends.

Any changes in traffic or access will be kept to a minimum and will be as brief as possible.

Before construction starts in front of your home or business, a company representative will contact you to discuss where you would like access maintained. Signs notifying the public that businesses are open during construction will be made available for those who request them.

For the latest information on traffic impacts and lane restrictions, visit the project home page or signup to receive weekly construction updates by email.

Residents can reduce the risk of accidents by driving carefully in construction zones and keeping children away from the construction site. Questar Gas works closely with city and state transportation officials to ensure safety and minimize inconvenience to drivers and pedestrians during construction.

Q6. Whom can I contact if I have questions or concerns?
If you have questions or concerns, please e-mail us or call Questar Gas’s Feeder Line  information help line at (801) 324-5548.