ExxonMobil Production Company has awarded contracts for work in support of the first well of a multi-well drilling program at Point Thomson. The work is part of the plan submitted to the Department of Natural Resources earlier this year to develop the Point Thomson Unit. ExxonMobil is operator of the unit.

A contract to Nanuq, Inc, together with Alaska Frontier Constructors, Inc. (Nanuq/AFC), both of Anchorage, Alaska, is for construction and maintenance of nearly 50 miles of ice roads and an ice air strip needed to transport the drilling rig and associated materials, camps and personnel to the Point Thomson site.

Barges to move the construction equipment to the Point Thomson site have been contracted. Additional contracts are planned for other key project activities.

The construction activity advances the development of the Point Thomson hydrocarbon resource for the mutual benefit of Alaskans and the 27 Point Thomson Unit working interest owners.

Craig Haymes, Alaska production manager for ExxonMobil, said, "The Point Thomson working interest owners are proceeding with the drilling plan and the project while we seek to resolve the dispute with the State over the Point Thomson Unit. We are hopeful that we will resolve the differences to our mutual satisfaction. Even if we cannot do so quickly, we intend to carry out the drilling program as leaseholders. We have already hired Alaskans, commenced upgrades on a drill rig and ordered long-lead materials in preparation to commence drilling this winter. The plan will provide jobs for over 200 people this winter."

Tags: Exxon Mobil Corporation