ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Ill. – Ameren Illinois is set to replace a decades-old pipeline along a 2.9-mile stretch of Illinois Route 157 in Collinsville as part of efforts to meet federal safety standards.
The project, which extends from Horseshoe Lake Road to Stonebridge Bluff Drive, is expected to impact traffic in the area. It is part of a multi-year plan by Ameren Illinois to bring all natural gas transmission pipelines into compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation guidelines.
According to the Director of West Region Natural Gas Operations, the project will help ensure the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas to homes and businesses, especially during extreme cold weather.
Ameren Illinois has full-time crews in Collinsville who respond to gas leaks 24/7 and handle other safety measures. The company has coordinated with the Illinois Department of Transportation and city officials to minimize traffic impacts.
Safety officials are urging drivers to slow down and stay alert when passing through work zones. Workers will be out soon, and travelers should expect lane shifts and possible delays.
The project is expected to be completed by early September, weather permitting.
All facts from this article were gathered by KTVI journalists. This article was converted into this format with assistance from artificial intelligence. It has been edited and approved by KTVI staff.