10/09/2026
As the Portland Pipe Line Buoyancy Control project nears completion, we’re proud to recognize the safety, dedication, and perseverance of the team members who helped bring this important effort across the finish line.
For nearly a year, Cianbro has served as the general contractor overseeing work to improve the buoyancy resistance of the PPLC 24-inch pipeline used to transported oil from Portland, Maine, to Montreal, Canada. These measures were needed to ensure it safely remains stable in the boggy terrain along its route and provide economic value to utilize the pipeline for future opportunities.
Working alongside Comprehensive Land Technologies, Inc., Shaw Brothers Construction, and Maine Drilling & Blasting, as well as many other PPLC environmental and operations personnel, our crews carefully uncovered sections of the pipeline so anchors could be installed deep into bedrock. These anchors and straps will keep the pipeline securely in place, preventing it from potentially moving from its existing location causing undue stress. In the future, PPLC will be able to safely displace existing crude oil with nitrogen gas to allow for maintenance and preserve the integrity of the pipeline.
Recently, the final two sections were secured, marking a major project milestone. The remaining work includes the removal of the access timber mats used to minimize environmental impacts in sensitive wetland areas and final soil stabilization.
A special thank you goes out to everyone involved for their commitment through every season, from the harsh cold of winter to the bugs of spring and the heat of summer. Your hard work, teamwork, and dedication made this project a success with no adverse environmental impacts, landowner or community complaints, or personnel safety incidents.
