I’m writing with concerns of the future of Endbridge’s Line 5 and the continued delays in coming to a decision on what will be done. With the current line being over 70 years old, the chances for a line rupture increases, with Endbridge making note of structural concerns 11 years ago. It appears the safety history of the current line has been almost flawless, while Enbridge continues to monitor its condition to prevent a spill. 

The question I have is who will be responsible if there is a future rupture of the current line, taking into consideration all these court battles and delays? The longer nothing is done increases chances of a problem. We don’t need a spill at any time or finger pointing from either side saying “I told you so”.  I am very concerned about the water quality of our great lakes and maybe shutting down the current line would ensure a rupture never happens. However, I’m also concerned about consequences if this were to happen, as I haven’t read any reasonable options on how to transfer this crude oil. 

Over the past few years, I have read and seen Endbridge’s new Line 5 proposal and what they intend to do with today’s technology, engineering and safety requirements. It’s also impressive the current Line 5 has lasted 70 years, thankfully without any major incidents. I also understand accidents happen due to human error or other unexpected influences.

The whole Straits of Mackinac, the bridge and our great lakes are vulnerable to many safety and security concerns to include Line 5, as it exists today. It seems Endbridge’s new Line 5 proposal is a much safer design with it being under the lake bottom. If the current 70 year old line had never existed, I would not be in favor of any line today. However, it seems the safety record of the existing line has been very good and I would expect the same of Enbridge’s proposal of a new Line 5.