Project moves from planning to progress
There’s a buzz in the air across northern Wisconsin—and it’s not just the start of summer.
After years of planning, discussion and preparation, construction on the Line 5 Wisconsin Segment Relocation Project is officially ramping up, bringing a flurry of activity, new jobs and fresh energy to the region.
At the main project yard, crews are already hard at work staging heavy equipment and materials in anticipation of the months ahead. For those closest to the project, it marks a milestone moment.
“It’s been a long time coming,” said Enbridge Project Manager Nick Riutta. “It feels really good to say that we are actually building it.”
Right now, the work may look less like construction and more like careful preparation.
Crews are clearing the pipeline right-of-way, removing debris left behind from tree cutting earlier this spring. It’s an important first step to make way for the next phase of work—while also protecting the land.
Before heavy equipment moves in, workers are laying down large wooden mats to create temporary access roads. The mats help prevent soil damage and reduce the environmental footprint of construction in sensitive areas.
Additional environmental safeguards are also put in place at this stage, ensuring that construction can move forward responsibly.
Work preparing the Line 5 Wisconsin Segment Relocation Project pipeline route.
Safety always front and center
Once the preparatory work is complete, the pace will pick up quickly.
Heavy equipment will move out from staging areas to begin grading and ditching along the route. Then comes one of the most visible steps: pipe delivery and “stringing,” where sections of pipe are laid out end-to-end along the right-of-way.
From there, crews weld the pipe sections together before trenching begins. The pipeline is carefully placed into the trench and then covered with soil, restoring the land as the work progresses.
It’s a complex, step-by-step process—but one that will become increasingly noticeable for nearby residents in the coming weeks.
With more workers and equipment comes increased traffic—and project leaders are reminding residents to stay alert.
“Safety is always a priority,” said Cylor Morgan, construction manager for Enbridge. “As we ramp up, people will see more trucks on the road and flaggers directing traffic near work zones.”
Drivers are encouraged to watch for signage, slow down near construction areas, and be mindful of workers entering and exiting the roadway.
“We’re trying to keep everyone safe—that’s the goal,” Morgan added.
A boost for local communities
Beyond the construction site, the project is already making an impact across the region.
Local and Wisconsin-based contractors are playing a major role. Michels, a Brownsville, WI-based construction firm, is leading much of the work, alongside subcontractors from across the state and the Ashland area.
As more workers are added to the project, the growth is being felt in local businesses. Workers are staying in nearby hotels, motels and campgrounds, and frequenting restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations and other local shops.
For many small-town businesses, the increased activity is a welcome boost during the busy summer season.
For those involved, the project represents more than just construction—it’s the result of years of coordination and planning with local communities.
“This is a team effort,” Riutta added. “We want to make sure we’re being respectful of what’s happening in the community and being good neighbors throughout the process.”
As construction moves into full swing, that partnership will remain a focus.
For now, though, there’s a shared sense of anticipation as the project finally comes to life.
“It’s a very exciting time,” Riutta said.
(TOP PHOTO: Nick Riutta walks among equipment in a Line 5 construction yard.)
