COLLINSVILLE, Ill. (March 25, 2026) – Ameren Illinois customers traveling between Madison and Bond counties will see significant energy infrastructure improvements underway beginning the week of April 1. Crews will begin upgrading a major natural gas transmission pipeline to meet enhanced federal safety standards established in 2019.
The project involves replacing approximately eight miles of 1960s-era steel pipeline with a new modern line designed to comply with updated U.S. Department of Transportation pipeline safety regulations. This work is part of Ameren Illinois’ multi‑year plan to modernize its natural gas transmission system ahead of the federal 2035 compliance deadline.
Ameren Illinois has coordinated with the Illinois Department of Transportation, Madison and Bond counties, and the City of Highland to obtain the necessary permits for infrastructure work in the area. Weather permitting, this project should be completed by early October.
“This upgrade reinforces our commitment to the safe, reliable, and affordable delivery of natural gas for our customers,” said Aitor Barrio, director of West Region Gas Operations for Ameren Illinois. “While many customers may think of Ameren Illinois primarily as an electric utility, we also operate a robust natural gas system in Madison and Bond counties. Our local, full‑time natural gas professionals work around the clock to maintain the system, respond to gas leaks at no charge, conduct safety inspections, install services, and support construction projects."
Safe Digging
As required by law, Ameren Illinois will contact JULIE (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators) at 811 prior to starting work to ensure safe digging practices. Customers may notice paint marks and colored utility flags near work zones indicating the location of underground facilities.
About Ameren Illinois
Ameren Illinois delivers energy to 1.2 million electric and more than 800,000 natural gas customers throughout central and southern Illinois. Our service territory covers more than 1,200 communities and 43,700 square miles and our mission is to power the quality of life. For more information, visit AmerenIllinois.com. Follow us at @AmerenIllinois or Facebook.com/AmerenIllinois.