Washington (January 4, 2019) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) today sent a letter to Columbia Gas of Massachusetts and its parent company NiSource reminding them of their responsibility to repair the more than 70 miles of damaged roads in Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover that were dug up as a result of the deadly September 13 natural gas disaster. The Senators make specific mention of ensuring that the damaged roads and sidewalks be repaired consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as well as any other municipal codes and regulations.

“Columbia Gas and NiSource must provide reassurance that all of the municipalities’ requests will be met, in order to have a chance of rebuilding trust while rebuilding infrastructure,” write the Senators. “We ask that you work with the leaders of the communities of North Andover, Andover and Lawrence and communicate your commitment to make them whole as soon as possible.”

A copy of the Senators’ letter to Columbia Gas can be found HERE.

On November 26, Senator Markey hosted a Senate Commerce Committee field hearing in Lawrence with Senator Warren, Senator Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (MA-03), Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06), and Congresswoman-elect Lori Trahan. The hearing was focused on the September 13 natural gas pipeline explosions and fires that killed Leonel Rondon, injured more than two dozen, and damaged more than 100 structures.

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