Eight days after a massive gas explosion upended Lawrence, Andover and North Andover, Massachusetts, officials announced an ambitious 60-day schedule to replace 48-miles of natural gas pipeline and related infrastructure. Officials said 2,000 meters could be brought back to full service in the next two weeks and that they plan to complete the entire reconstruction by Nov. 19.
“Everyone’s top priority is safety,” Gov. Charlie Baker said during a Sept. 21 press briefing. “The team has devised a plan to meet all levels of safety and that is intended to quickly and efficiently complete each step.”