June 7, 2023 – Ameren says it continues efforts to modernize its natural gas energy delivery infrastructure in the Decatur area.
This week approximately 32 contractors with Ameren started construction to upgrade an eight-mile stretch of natural gas transmission pipeline in Decatur.
The first section includes East Faries Parkway, near ADM, to 27th Street. There, crews are upgrading two miles of 1950s-era pipeline with modern 12-inch steel pipeline.
The second section is 27th Street to North MacArthur Road. In that project, crews will reduce the downstream pressure of an additional six-mile stretch of 10-inch pipeline from 27th Street to North MacArthur Road as well as add a new regulator station.
“We have made significant progress in the last several years strengthening the integrity and reducing the emissions of our natural gas infrastructure across our Ameren Illinois service territory,” said Eric Kozak, vice president of Natural Gas Operations and Distribution, Ameren Illinois. “As we look to the future, we are building a robust energy delivery system that meets the needs of our customers in Decatur and Macon County and throughout our service territory.”
Ameren is asking motorists driving in and around the route to be mindful of the trucks moving and employees in the work zone.
“We need everyone’s help when it comes to work zone safety in these neighborhoods and on every route where workers are present,” said Karen Boulanger, director of Safety, Ameren Illinois. “The signs and cones create their protected work area. Please slow down as you drive on these local streets and pay attention. Our co-workers and contractors want to return home safely at the end of the day.”
