Upgrades to Goodwin Tombaugh system preserve access to affordable natural gas while strengthening safety and reliability, reducing methane emissions

 Peoples Natural Gas, an Essential Utilities company, today joined state and local officials, community leaders and customers to celebrate the successful modernization of the Goodwin Tombaugh pipeline system. This landmark infrastructure project upgraded more than 300 miles of natural gas pipelines serving nearly 1,700 customers across portions of Greene, Washington and Allegheny counties. 

The event, held at the Center Township Volunteer Fire Department in Greene County, recognized the completion of a seven-year effort to replace aging infrastructure, some of which dated back to 1901, with a modern natural gas distribution system designed to improve safety, reliability and environmental performance for generations to come. Company leaders and public officials commemorated the milestone by signing the final section of pipeline to be installed as part of the modernization project. 

The Goodwin Tombaugh systems serve customers in rural communities where maintaining access to affordable, reliable natural gas remains vital for households and businesses. Shortly after Essential Utilities’ acquisition of Peoples, the newly combined company began the systematic replacement of aging, leak-prone pipelines. Since 2020, Peoples has installed 230 miles of new infrastructure while abandoning 115 miles of aged lines, creating a smaller, more efficient system that preserves utility gas access for existing customers.

"Today’s celebration represents far more than the completion of an infrastructure project. It reflects our long-term commitment to the communities we serve and our belief that customers deserve safe, reliable and affordable energy," said Essential Utilities Chairman & CEO Chris Franklin. "The modernization of the Goodwin Tombaugh system demonstrates how strategic investment in utility infrastructure can strengthen public safety, reduce emissions, and preserve essential energy service for rural communities across Southwestern Pennsylvania." 

"The Goodwin Tombaugh project showcases the dedication of our employees, contractors and community partners who worked tirelessly over several years to transform this system," said Peoples President Michael Huwar. "By replacing aging pipelines with modern infrastructure, we have enhanced reliability for our customers, reduced methane emissions, and ensured that families and businesses throughout this region will continue to have access to affordable, safe and dependable natural gas service." 

"This investment is an important win for the residents and businesses of our region," said State Sen. Camera Bartolotta (R-46). "The completion of this modernization effort improves public safety, supports economic development and helps ensure that our communities continue to have access to the reliable energy infrastructure needed to grow and prosper." 

The Goodwin Tombaugh modernization project is part of Peoples' broader commitment to replacing aging infrastructure throughout its 18-county service territory. Final work on the project, including permanent restoration of affected areas, is expected to conclude in Spring 2027.