MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Memphis, Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) completed construction on its $37.4 million natural gas pipeline modernization project in South Memphis.

MLGW announced that the 5.4-mile-long high-pressure distribution line began service on Thursday.

The pipeline is made of thicker, stronger steel pipe, according to MLGW, and is one of the biggest modernization projects the utility company has ever done.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime type of upgrade, considering the replaced pipelines were installed nearly 100 years ago,” Doug McGowen, MLGW's president and chief executive officer, said in a news release. “To complete this critical work without any interruption to service is a testament to the planning and execution of all involved.”

MLGW said the project, which started on Gill Roa

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