Traffic on Harrison to be diverted starting Monday to allow for replacement of natural gas pipeline

QUINCY — Ameren Illinois crews will begin work near Harrison Street on Monday, March 18 as they remove a natural gas steel pipeline over Curtis Creek and relocate it under the creek with new eight-inch corrosion-resistant polyethylene material.

Crews will bore under the creek to install nearly 700 feet of pipeline. Once the new system is in service, workers will remove the eight-inch steel pipeline over the creek. Customers along Harrison Street should not experience any interruption in gas service.

“These proactive steps will ensure the continued safe, reliable delivery of natural gas today while preparing us to meet the future needs of our natural gas customers,” said Aitor Barrio, director of gas operations, in a press release. “Many customers think of Ameren Illinois as an electric company, but we also provide reliable natural gas service to Quincy. We have full-time natural gas professionals who live and work in the Quincy area who maintain the system, respond to gas leaks free of charge 24/7, install new services and perform construction projects.”

A detour around the Harrison Street project will be in place for at least two weeks. Harrison Street from South 24th to Curtis Creek Road will be closed to traffic beginning at 7 a.m. Monday, March 18. Local traffic detours will be set up directing traffic onto South 28th and Monroe streets. Through traffic is encouraged to use State Street to go from South 24th to South 36th.

“We need everyone’s help when it comes to work zone safety near Harrison Street and on every route where workers are present,” said Karen Boulanger, director of safety for 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 want to return home safely at the end of the day.”

As required by law, Ameren Illinois will call JULIE (8-1-1) before starting work so crews can dig safely. Customers will see paint marks and colored flags near the work area and along the road to mark the location of underground utilities.