A recent investigation revealed thousands of miles of natural gas pipelines all over Texas may need replacing, and some of them are here in Abilene.
The investigation found that 25,000 miles of pipeline were laid before 1970 -- and some here in Abilene date back to before World War II.
Pipes laid before 1970 are more vulnerable than newer ones, as the techniques used to build them are inferior to today's technology.
"It would be devastating with the size of that main for it to blow just less than 100 yards from my house. It would devastate this entire neighborhood," said Abilene resident Diana Myers.
Myers lives on Royal Court, just a short distance from one of Abilene's main natural gas pipelines that runs down Rebecca Lane. If something were to go wrong with one of the pipelines, the consequences could be devastating; as evidenced by an explosion in 2000 when a bulldozer hit a pipeline near Potosi. However, natural gas companies monitor the pipes and firefighters are extensively trained on what to do in case of an emergency. However, some residents still say they'd rather see the old pipes replaced to ensure their safety. "For something like that to happen in this part of town would devastate Abilene," Myers said. To dig up the old pipes and lay down new ones would cost up to a million and a half dollars per mile.
As of right now, there are no plans to replace the pipes.
