Shell Pipeline Company LP has awarded a major construction contract to Morrison for the development of a new elevated oil metering facility at Fourchon Junction — a vital node in the Gulf of Mexico’s energy transport network, located just south of Port Fourchon, Louisiana.
The large-scale infrastructure project is designed to expand regional oil flow capacity, enhance system reliability, and improve efficiency across several offshore pipeline networks. It marks another strategic step in Shell’s ongoing investment in modernizing critical Gulf Coast energy infrastructure to ensure long-term operational resilience.
Under the agreement, Morrison will oversee every phase of project execution, including comprehensive management, scheduling, subcontractor coordination, site development, and logistics oversight. The scope of work extends to prefabrication of roughly 500 tons of modular components at Morrison’s Houma and Harvey facilities, along with instrumentation and electrical integration, sub-foundation construction, selective demolition, and installation of interconnecting piping systems.
“Fourchon Junction is a critical infrastructure hub in the Gulf of America energy network, and Morrison recognizes the significance of this project,” said Ches Morrison, director of construction at Morrison. “We are honored to support this strategic project.”
The new metering facility will serve as a key checkpoint for monitoring and regulating oil flow through multiple offshore pipelines, improving efficiency and safety within the Gulf’s transport systems. Its elevated design enhances flood and storm resilience — a growing priority in coastal Louisiana, which faces increasing exposure to severe weather and sea-level rise.
The project is expected to generate significant local employment opportunities, supporting jobs in steel fabrication, welding, civil engineering, electrical systems, and logistics. It will also engage a network of regional subcontractors and suppliers, reinforcing Louisiana’s strong position in America’s energy infrastructure sector.
Beyond immediate economic benefits, the facility is seen as a long-term investment in regional energy stability. Once completed, the project will help streamline operations for offshore production platforms and reduce bottlenecks across key crude transportation corridors.
Construction is already underway, with completion targeted for the third quarter of 2026.
Industry observers note that this project aligns with Shell’s broader strategy to upgrade and modernize existing energy transport assets in response to evolving production demands and environmental challenges in the Gulf of Mexico region.
Originally reported by PG Online.
