Lake Apopka Natural Gas District Nears Completion of Pipeline Projects

The Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD) has successfully completed seven out of eight planned pipeline projects, with these enhancements now fully operational across various neighborhoods, including those in Apopka.

 

The eighth project, situated along Fullers Cross Road between Winter Garden and Ocoee, commenced construction on November 12 and is projected to conclude by the first quarter of 2026.

 

These infrastructure improvements are funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) through the Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization (NGDISM) grant program. This initiative aims to enhance public safety, protect health, and reduce methane emissions from natural gas distribution systems.

 

In May 2023, PHMSA awarded LANGD an initial grant of $3.1 million, followed by an additional $132,470.80 in November 2024. These funds have been instrumental in modernizing the district's infrastructure, including the replacement of over 13 miles of vintage steel and plastic pipelines with modern polyethylene pipes.

 

LANGD is currently preparing a fiscal year 2025 grant application requesting $14 million to further these efforts. However, the application process has experienced delays due to the recent federal government shutdown, which lasted from October 1 to November 12.

 

Despite these challenges, LANGD has seen significant growth, adding nearly 1,400 new customers from October 2024 to October 2025, surpassing previous projections of 1,000 to 1,200 new customers. This growth underscores the increasing demand for natural gas services in the region.

 

In addition to infrastructure improvements, LANGD is actively promoting scholarship and internship programs in local schools, such as Wekiva High School, to encourage students to pursue careers in skilled trades. The district has also engaged with staff at West Orange and Ocoee High Schools, receiving enthusiastic responses to these initiatives.

 

CEO and General Manager Brent Haywood emphasized the importance of skilled trades, stating, "We’ve spent a whole generation teaching people that your mind is the most powerful tool, and now that we’ve got AI, it’s really the hands that are going to be the most powerful tool."

 

These developments reflect LANGD's commitment to enhancing infrastructure, supporting community growth, and investing in the future workforce of the region.