The Capital Journal in South Dakota reported that TC Energy, the builder of the Keystone XL pipeline from Canada to the U.S. has awarded another $1.6 billion in contracts with six American contractors.
As a result, an estimated more than 11,000 workers will be hired in 2021 and at least 8,000 will be union jobs.
“The awarding of 2021 U.S. construction contracts shows the continued momentum behind Keystone XL. The dedicated members of the Operating Engineers are eager and ready to build this critical piece of modern North American energy infrastructure to the highest quality standards,” said James T. Callahan, General President of the International Union of Operating Engineers. “The 8,000 American union jobs that come with 2021 construction is welcome news and irreplaceable as the U.S. continues our economic recovery.”
The contracts were awarded to Barnard Pipeline of Bozeman, Montana; Associated Pipeline of Houston, Texas; Michels located in Brownsville, Wisconsin; Precision Pipeline of Eau Claire, Wiscon; Price Gregory International headquartered in Katy, Texas; and U.S. Pipeline of Houston, Texas.
Project President Richard Prior said it shows how the Keystone XL is already playing a critical role in contributing to the country’s economic recovery.
“The selection of our U.S. construction contractors for 2021 is an important next step in employing thousands more American union workers and delivering tangible benefits to local communities and businesses.”
The Capital Journal reported TC Energy officials have said the project would eventually lead to 3,500 jobs in South Dakota while passing through nine counties: Harding, Butte, Perkins, Meade, Pennington, Haakon, Jones, Lyman and Tripp.
Source: Capital Journal