NIPSCO Industries, Inc. subsidiary Crossroads Pipeline isshooting for a 300% increase in system throughput with an extensionof its Midwest pipeline system to new interconnects with NorthernBorder Pipeline and Natural Gas Pipeline Company of America.Crossroads plans to hold an open season for an additional 500,000Dth/d of firm transportation services beginning Feb. 16 andconcluding March 31. The system currently transports about 150,000Dth/d from a connection with NGPL in Schererville, IN, to aconnection with Columbia Gas at Maumee, OH.

“I still believe there’s an eastbound project to be had,” saidJohn Fortman, a spokesman for the pipeline. “What we’re trying todo here is position ourselves in Chicago.” He said most othereastbound pipeline projects out of Chicago were premature, but thetiming and the economics were right for this Crossroads expansion.The $35-$45 million expansion is not expected to increaseCrossroads existing FT rate, which is $0.1093/Dth. Pending marketcommitments and federal regulatory approval, services could beginas early as November 2000.

“This expansion will enhance NI’s strategy to link the growingMidwest and New England market centers,” said Dan Gavito, vicepresident of NI Energy Services.

The expansion project would involve the addition of 25 miles of30-inch diameter pipe to new interconnects with NGPL’s pipelinesystem and Northern Border’s proposed extension at North Hayden,IN.

Crossroads already tested the market for about a year withanother proposed expansion involving CNG and its subsidiary EastOhio Gas, but had few takers.

For additional information on the Crossroads open season,contact John Fortman at 219-647-5681.

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