en.Wedoany.com Report on Mar 26th, The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation recently announced an investment of $98 million to support the modernization and upgrade of the aging natural gas distribution pipeline system in the United States.

PHMSA Administrator Paul Roberti stated, "Modernizing natural gas distribution pipelines will save lives and protect America's energy future. We look forward to working with local communities to reduce leaks, prevent incidents, and help make household energy bills more affordable."

The funding comes from the Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization (NGDISM) Grant Program, primarily providing support to municipally and community-owned utilities for repairing, replacing, or upgrading aging and leak-prone natural gas distribution pipeline systems. This initiative aims to enhance the safety of pipeline operations and ensure the stability of energy supply.

The NGDISM program offers nearly $1 billion in funding over five years to improve the safety and efficiency of high-risk, leaking, or leak-prone natural gas distribution infrastructure. Funds can be used for repairing, rehabilitating, or replacing existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure, as well as purchasing equipment such as leak detection and line location devices to reduce the risk of incidents and economic losses. This year marks the final year of the program.

PHMSA has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity outlining the application criteria. Eligible projects must complete their submissions by May 22, 2026.