The Barton County Commission Wednesday morning approved a letter of support for Midwest Energy, which is applying for a grant to help replace a pipeline that crosses the northern part of the county.

“Midwest energy is applying for grant funding for a project that consists of replacing 42 miles of leak-prone top-of-the ground bare steel pipe,” County Operations Director Matt Patzner said. The so-called Legacy Pipeline dates back over 60 years and runs through the northern tier of Barton County townships.

“It is critical that the pipes be replaced,” Patzner said. “Not only do we have concerns with the safety of the citizens, but we advocate for all upgrades or new system infrastructure.”