Enstar Rushes to Repair Leaking Pipeline Under Alaska's Twentymile River

Enstar Natural Gas is racing to repair an 8-inch submerged pipeline beneath Alaska's Twentymile River, which was discovered leaking on August 9. A boater had reported smelling natural gas near a Seward Highway boat launch south of Girdwood.

The leak was confirmed that evening by Enstar crews, who returned the next day to assess the extent of the damage. The pipeline serves Whittier, where Enstar operates 39 meters of infrastructure, including one serving the Begich Towers condominium building.

Residents and businesses have been advised to prepare for possible temporary interruptions in natural gas service while repairs are underway. Enstar plans to shut down the affected pipeline once a trailer carrying liquefied natural gas arrives from Fairbanks, which will be regasified and introduced into the local system to help maintain service.

The utility said service interruptions could occur over the next 30 to 45 days as crews construct a new cross bore beneath the Twentymile River. Enstar has advised customers to prepare for potential outages that could affect gas-powered heating, water heaters, stoves and other appliances.