Enbridge Energy

The environmental review is a major step toward a permitting decision on the controversial proposal to build a tunnel under the Straits of Mackinac. The last day for the public to comment on it is June 30.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reviewed the environmental effects of constructing a tunnel, leaving the existing lines as they are or covering the dual lines with gravel and rock.

The clock will start on public comment at the end of May, but with half as much time — 30 days instead of 60.

The federal review of the Line 5 tunnel project will be sped up through new emergency procedures under an executive order from President Donald Trump.

The review process for the Line 5 tunnel project in the Straits of Mackinac may be fast-tracked under an emergency order from the Trump administration.

The case stems from a lawsuit filed in 2019 by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, and the intention was to void a 1953 easement that allowed Enbridge to run the dual pipelines across the bottom of the Straits of Mackinac.

A panel of judges in Lansing heard arguments Tuesday morning concerning a state permit that’s necessary for the proposed Line 5 tunnel in the Mackinac Straits. WCMU's All Things Considered host David Nicholas spoke with reporter Teresa Homsi about the appeal.

The Mackinac Straits Corridor Authority recently welcomed Republican, Ruth Hepfer as their newest member on the three-person board.

The permit would have expired before tunnel construction could start in 2026.

A federal appeals court heard arguments today on whether the Michigan’s efforts to shut down Enbridge Line Five belong in a state or federal court.