By Davi Stuhlsatz

A specialized contractor began rerouting a four-inch natural gas pipeline this week at the site of the future Walmart Neighborhood at Chet Smith and Rock Road. The pipeline is owned by Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline and serves Mulvane, according to Benjamin Hoak, spokesman for Southern Star. The proposed Walmart building would have encroached upon the pipeline easement had it not been moved, which is not allowed due to safety and maintenance issues, he said. If all goes as planned, the pipeline will be completely moved in about a month. Hoak said Southern Star cooperated with First Christian Church during a replacement project in 2008 and moved the pipeline on that side of Chet Smith at that time. A Walmart spokesperson said this past week that its construction will begin when the pipeline is moved.