Add another pipeline project to the list of those that wouldmove gas eastward from the burgeoning Chicago market center. Crossroads Pipeline, in conjunction with CNG Transmission and EastOhio Gas, scheduled an open season for firm transportationbeginning Monday, March 2, and concluding April 20.

Capacity is offered from the Chicago market center to markets onEast Ohio Gas and CNG Transmission and farther east throughexisting interconnects along CNG’s system, including Leidy, PA. TheCrossroads project maximizes the use of existing facilities todeliver natural gas from U.S. and Canadian supply basins throughthe Chicago area and into expanding eastern markets. The proposedproject could initially support up to 150,000 Dth/d, depending onmarket response and will require little additional construction. Pending market commitments and federal regulatory approval, servicecould begin as early as 1999. The project also offers seamlessnominations and billing. The transportation rate is estimated at 45cents/Dth, based on 100% load factor and 10-year term, with 3.5%fuel charge, all subject to final delivery points, volume andterms. Rates also will be available for five-year terms.

Crossroads is the interstate transmission subsidiary of NIPSCOIndustries. “Crossroads’ participation in this project is a keylink in NIPSCO Industries’ strategy to move natural gas from theGreat Lakes region to the growing Northeast market,” said DanGavito, Crossroads vice president. “Coupled with NI’s pendingacquisition of Bay State Gas Co., one of the largest natural gasdistributors in the Northeast, Crossroads’ expansion strengthensNI’s commitment to be a major player in the energy and utilityservices business in growing regional markets.” Joe Fisher,Houston

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