LANSING, MI (MPRN)-- A controversial plan to build a tunnel that houses a crude oil and natural gas liquids pipeline under the Straits of Mackinac is one step closer to reality.
Governor Rick Snyder signed a bill Wednesday.
It creates a tunnel oversight commission and lets Snyder’s tunnel plan move forward.
Environmental groups oppose the move. They say running oil in a pipeline under the Straits is too risky for the Great Lakes.
Ari Adler is a spokesman for Snyder. He says the tunnel is the best way to transport oil and natural gas through the Great Lakes.
“That is based on independent analysis the safest way to continue to move oil and natural gas through the pipeline.”
Snyder already chose people for the commission. The state Senate has to give advice and consent. Adler says Snyder chose the three people based on their background and qualifications – including geographic diversity.