Gas Meter Connection

I have never seen this before. There is a piece of corrugated pipe connecting this meter. It is the BLACK peice of material at black iron pipe. Any thoughts???

Thanks!

I’d say it belongs to the utility company. Their equipment, their rules.

Agree with Jeff.

Also, since it is located on an apparent patio (of sorts), I would make note of the potential for damage from bicycles, lawn mowers, bbq grills, etc…