Indiana-based NiSource Inc. expects to invest $1.6-1.7 billion in its Northern Indiana Public Service Co. (NIPSCO) and Columbia Gas utilities across seven states, following an investment of $1.5 billion in 2016, CEO Joe Hamrock said during a conference call. Last year was the first full calendar year for NiSource to operate exclusively as a combination utility, and the company’s long-term investment strategy includes major investments in pipelines and electric transmission lines, he told analysts. Net income from continuing operations was $88.8 million (28 cents/share) in 4Q2016, compared with $64.4 million (20 cents) in 4Q2015. Full year 2016 income was $328.1 million ($1.02/share), versus 2015 profits of $198.6 million (63 cents).