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Central Illinois Grid Transformation Program

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  • Orange Route Option
  • Purple Route Option
  • Existing 138kV upgrade to 138/345kV
  • Existing Option
  • Pink Route Option
  • Blue Route Option
  • Yellow Connector
  • IL County

    • The colors on the map are different routes our team is exploring as part of the routing process. We will only be constructing one of these routes for the line. However, it is possible that the final routes could be combination of routes. We are sharing these preliminary route alternatives with the public to gather valuable input and feedback on the opportunities and sensitivities that will help our team in the routing process. Click on your county on the map to learn more.

Hancock County

Routing in Hancock County

In general, we are following existing corridors in this area. The orange line on the map below is another potential option we are exploring instead of following the existing corridor in the northwest corner of the county.

Map

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Download Mapbook (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 24 miles of upgraded transmission lines in Hancock County.

Map

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Replacement
Replacing 24 miles of existing wooden monopoles with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy. In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will typically be constructed within existing corridors.

Structure Snapshot

Two side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 showcases the existing 138 kV wooden monopole, with an average height of 40-85ft and average span length between 100-500ft. Structures per mile averages between 9-12 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

McDonough County

Routing in McDonough County

Listen to an update about what's happening in McDonough County.

Hello! My name is Drew Beahm. I am one of the project managers for the Central Illinois Grid Transformation Program. We appreciate your interest in the program in McDonough County. I’m sure you’re wondering what all the different lines on this map are for. Using our routing criteria, as well as input received from stakeholders and community members during phase 1 of public engagement, our team developed more defined routes or “Preliminary Route Alternatives”. We are sharing these preliminary route alternatives with the public to gather valuable input and feedback on the opportunities and sensitivities that will help our team in the routing process.

The colors on the map are different routes our team is exploring as part of the routing process. We will only be constructing one of these routes for the line. However, it is possible that the final routes could be combination of routes.

The yellow lines on the map are called connectors. Connectors are additional options the routing team is reviewing that could potentially be part of the final route. These connectors will only be used if they are selected as the final Preferred Route.

The dark green lines along the western and eastern sides of the county represent existing single circuit 138 kV transmission lines that will be replaced with new double circuit, steel monopole structures that will carry the new 345 kV circuit and existing 138 kV circuit.

Along the central portion of the County, the configuration of, and congestion along the existing transmission corridors requires the team to consider new corridors, of which multiple options have been identified.

Let’s start with the purple and orange routes. If either of these routes are selected, we would build a new, 345kV single circuit line around the city and rebuild the existing 138kV circuit along the light green line through the city. These two lines would then connect back up in the southeast of Macomb.

e have a few different options on the north side of the city. The first option is to rebuild the existing 138kV circuit – the light green line on the map – where it currently is through the city of Macomb. In this scenario, a new, single circuit 345kV transmission line would be built along the blue or pink route around the city. These two lines would then connect back up in the southeast of Macomb.

The second option is to relocate the existing 138kV circuit – the light green line on the map – that currently runs through the city and build a new, 138kV and 345kV double circuit on either the blue or pink routes on the map. This option would also require constructing 138 kV connector lines along blue, yellow, or green lines into the existing substations that currently serve the Macomb area.

Now that you’ve learned more about what the colored lines mean, we encourage you to go back to the main map page and provide any feedback or input that would be helpful for our team to know during the routing process.

Map

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Download Mapbook (PDF) Routing Process Overview (PDF) What we Heard in McDonough County (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 37 miles of new and upgraded transmission lines in McDonough County.

Map

Click to enlarge

Replacement
Replacing 14 miles of existing wooden monopoles and H-frame structures with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy. In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will typically be constructed within existing corridors.
New Corridor
The new 345 kV circuit will be routed approximately 19 to 24 miles along new corridors through the county. The new structures may be constructed as single-circuit 345 kV or as double circuit with the existing 138 kV circuits being relocated into the new transmission corridors.

Structure Snapshot

Three side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 shows the existing 138 kV wooden monopole, with an average height of 60ft and average span length between 100-500ft. Structures per mile averages between 9-12 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows the existing 138 kV wooden H-frame, with an average height of 40-80ft and average span length between 300-800ft. Structures per mile averages between 9-12 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 3 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

Fulton County

Routing in Fulton County

We are following existing corridors in this area.

Map

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Download Mapbook (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 42 miles of upgraded transmission lines in Fulton County.

Map

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Replacement
Replacing 28 miles of existing wood and lattice H-frame structures with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy. In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will typically be constructed within existing corridors.
New Wire
Adding new wire to 14 miles of existing structures to carry additional energy.

Structure Snapshot

Four side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 shows a 345 kV lattice structure with an average height of 120-180ft and average span length between 900-1300ft. Structures per mile averages between 4-6 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows a 345 kV lattice H-Frame with an average height of 60-95ft and average span length between 700-1100ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-7 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum. Graphic 3 shows the existing 138 kV wooden H-frame, with an average height of 50-85ft and average span length between 300-700ft. Structures per mile averages between 8-10 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 4 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

Peoria County

Routing in Peoria County

We are adding or replacing wire on existing lattice structures to carry additional energy.

Map

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Download Mapbook (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 12 miles of upgraded transmission lines in Peoria County.

Map

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New Wire
Adding new wire to 6 miles of existing lattice structures to carry additional energy.
Replace Wire
Replacing wire on 6 miles of existing lattice structures to carry additional energy.

Structure Snapshot

Two side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures for the county. Individual structure replacements may be required based upon inspection of existing structures and final design parameters. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 shows a 345 kV lattice structure with an average height of 130-190ft and average span length between 1000-1200ft. Structures per mile averages between 4-6 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows the existing 69/345kV steel monopole, with an average height of 120-180ft and average span length between 800-1300ft. Structures per mile averages between 4-6 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

Tazewell County

Routing in Tazewell County

Listen to an update about what's happening in Tazewell County.

Hello! My name is Drew Beahm. I am one of the project managers for the Central Illinois Grid Transformation Program. We appreciate your interest in the program in Tazewell County. I’m sure you’re wondering what all the different lines on this map are for. Using our routing criteria, as well as input received from stakeholders and community members during phase 1 of public engagement, our team developed more defined routes or “Preliminary Route Alternatives”. We are sharing these preliminary route alternatives with the public to gather valuable input and feedback on the opportunities and sensitivities that will help our team in the routing process.

The colors on the map are different routes our team is exploring as part of the routing process. We will only be constructing one of these routes for the line. However, it is possible that the final routes could be combination of routes.

The yellow lines on the map are called connectors. Connectors are additional options the routing team is reviewing that could potentially be part of the final route. These connectors will only be used if they are selected as the final Preferred Route.

The dark green line on the map is an area where we will be constructing a new 138 kV single circuit, along existing transmission corridors. Constructing this new 138 kV circuit will allow an existing 138 kV circuit on existing transmission structures to be re-energized at a higher 345 kV voltage. Both the new 138 kV circuit, and the re-energized 345 kV circuit will be connected into the existing Tazewell substation. From this substation we have a three options.

The first option is to follow primarily an existing transmission corridor along the light green line, replacing existing 138 kV single circuit structures with double-circuit 345 kV and 138 kV structures.

The second option is to relocate the existing 138kV line– the light green line – and build a new, 138kV and 345kV circuit along the blue, orange, pink, or purple lines. A new 138kV line would be routed north along the yellow connector to the Mackinaw substation and then continue along the existing 138 kV route.

The third option is to construct a new 345 kV, single circuit line along the blue, orange, pink, or purple lines and to rebuild the existing 138 kV line along its existing corridor.

Now that you’ve learned more about what the colored lines mean, we encourage you to go back to the main map page and provide any feedback or input that would be helpful for our team to know during the routing process.

Map

Click to enlarge

Download Mapbook (PDF) Routing Process Overview (PDF) What we Heard in Tazewell County (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 33 miles of new and upgraded transmission lines in Tazewell County.

Map

Click to enlarge

Replace Wire and New Corridor
Replacing wire on 9 miles of existing lattice structures to carry additional energy. The existing 9-mile, 138 kV circuit will be rebuilt in a new corridor routed near the Illinois River.
Replacement or New Corridor
Replace 9 miles of existing wooden H-frame structures and steel monopoles with new steel monopoles OR route the new 9-mile, 345 kV circuit along new corridors instead of using existing corridors.

From there, we have two options to connect to McLean County

Option 1: Replacement
Continue with replacing 6 miles of existing steel monopole structures.
Option 2: New Corridor
Route the new 9 to 13-mile, 345 kV circuit along new corridors instead of using existing corridors.

Structure Snapshot

Four side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 shows a 138/345 kV lattice structure with an average height of 120-165ft and average span length between 800-1300ft. Structures per mile averages between 4-6 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows the existing 138 kV steel monopole, with an average height of 80-100ft and average span length between 500-800ft. Structures per mile averages between 8 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 3 shows the existing 138 kV wooden H-frame, with an average height of 50-85ft and average span length between 300-700ft. Structures per mile averages between 8-10 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 4 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

McLean County

Routing in McLean County

Listen to an update about what's happening in McLean County.

Hello! My name is Drew Beahm. I am one of the project managers for the Central Illinois Grid Transformation Program. We appreciate your interest in the program in McLean County. I’m sure you’re wondering what all the different lines on this map are for. Using our routing criteria, as well as input received from stakeholders and community members during phase 1 of public engagement, our team developed more defined routes or “Preliminary Route Alternatives”. We are sharing these preliminary route alternatives with the public to gather valuable input and feedback on the opportunities and sensitivities that will help our team in the routing process.

The colors on the map are different routes our team is exploring as part of the routing process. We will only be constructing one of these routes for the line. However, it is possible that the final routes could be combination of routes.

The yellow lines on the map are called connectors. Connectors are additional options the routing team is reviewing that could potentially be part of the final route. These connectors will only be used if they are selected as the final Preferred Route.

While nearly 85% of the Central Illinois Grid Transformation Program will be able to leverage existing transmission corridors for the construction of the new 345 kV circuits, in McLean County, the configuration of, and congestion along existing corridors requires that the project team investigate new transmission corridors.

Starting along the west side of the County, the various colored lines (pink, orange, light blue, and purple) represent the potential route alternatives for the new single-circuit 345 kV transmission circuit that will be routed south of the City of Bloomington. As the new circuit approaches a new substation located southeast of the Central Illinois Regional Airport, the blue and orange route alternative reflects a route alternative that will construct the new circuit parallel to existing transmission corridors.

From the new substation and heading to the eastern border of McLean County, the dark green line on the map represents an area where we plan to replace existing single circuit structures with new double-circuit structures.

Now that you’ve learned more about what the colored lines mean, we encourage you to go back to the main map page and provide any feedback or input that would be helpful for our team to know during the routing process.

Map

Click to enlarge

Download Mapbook (PDF) Routing Process Overview (PDF) What we Heard in McLean County (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 50 miles of new and upgraded transmission lines in McLean County.

Map

Click to enlarge

Option 1: Replacement and New Corridor
Replace 6 miles of existing steel monopoles with new steel monopoles in the existing transmission corridor. Then route the new 345 kV circuit approximately 20 miles along new corridors south of the City of Bloomington.
Option 2: New Corridor
Route the new, approximately 25-mile, 345 kV circuit south of the City of Bloomington instead of using existing corridors.
Replacement
Replacing 24 miles of existing wooden H-frame structures on the east side of Bloomington with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy. In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will typically be constructed within existing corridors.

Structure Snapshot

Three side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 showcases the existing 138 kV steel monopole, with an average height of 80-110ft and average span length between 500-900ft. Structures per mile averages between 8 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows the existing 138 kV wooden H-frame, with an average height of 50-110ft and average span length between 400-700ft. Structures per mile averages between 9-12 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 3 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

Ford County

Routing in Ford County

In general, we are following existing corridors in this area. The orange and blue lines near Paxton are options we are exploring instead of following the existing corridor.

Map

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Download Mapbook (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 27 miles of upgraded transmission lines in Ford County.

Map

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Replacement
Replacing 27 miles of existing wooden H-frame structures with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy. In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will typically be constructed within existing corridors.

Structure Snapshot

Two side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 shows the existing 138 kV wooden H-frame, with an average height of 35-110ft and average span length between 400-700ft. Structures per mile averages between 8-12 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

Iroquois County

Routing in Iroquois County

In general, we are following existing corridors in this area. The orange and purple lines near Gilman and the orange and pink lines near Watseka are options we are exploring instead of following the existing corridors in these two areas.

Map

Click to enlarge

Download Mapbook (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 50 miles of new or upgraded transmission lines in Iroquois County.

Map

Click to enlarge

Replacement
Replacing 50 miles of existing wooden H-frame structures and wooden monopoles with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy. In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will typically be constructed within existing corridors. The exact connection point on the Illinois-Indiana border is still being considered, but will be within a few miles of the current corridor centerline.
New Corridor
The new 345 kV circuit may be routed in new corridors near existing substations in the cities of Gilman and Watseka.

Structure Snapshot

Three side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 shows the existing 138 kV wooden monopole, with an average height of 35-95ft and average span length between 100-400ft. Structures per mile averages between 18-22 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows the existing 138 kV wooden H-frame, with an average height of 60-120ft and average span length between 600-800ft. Structures per mile averages between 7-9 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 3 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

Champaign County

Routing in Champaign County

In general, we are following existing corridors in this area. The orange and blue lines near Sidney are options we are exploring instead of following the existing corridor.

Map

Click to enlarge

Download Mapbook (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 26 miles of upgraded transmission lines in Champaign County.

Map

Click to enlarge

Replacement
Replacing 26 miles of existing wooden H-frame structures with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy. In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will typically be constructed within existing corridors.

Structure Snapshot

Two side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 shows the existing 138 kV wooden H-frame, with an average height of 50-110ft and average span length between 400-700ft. Structures per mile averages between 9-12 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

Adams County

Routing in Adams County

Listen to an update about what's happening in Adams County.

Hello! My name is Drew Beahm. I am one of the project managers for the Central Illinois Grid Transformation Program. We appreciate your interest in the program in Adams County. I’m sure you’re wondering what all the different lines on this map are for. Using our routing criteria, as well as input received from stakeholders and community members during phase 1 of public engagement, our team developed more defined routes or “Preliminary Route Alternatives”. We are sharing these preliminary route alternatives with the public to gather valuable input and feedback on the opportunities and sensitivities that will help our team in the routing process.

The colors on the map are different routes our team is exploring as part of the routing process. We will only be constructing one of these routes for the line. However, it is possible that the final routes could be combination of routes.

The dark green lines on the map are areas that following existing transmission corridors, where we will be, primarily, replacing existing single-circuit structures with new double-circuit structures to accommodate installation of the new 345 kV circuit.

The new 345 kV circuit will enter Adams County southwest of Quincy utilizing existing river crossing structures to cross the Mississippi River. The circuit will be routed along those existing transmission corridors to the south and east of Quincy along the dark green lines mentioned previously. As the circuit continues north parallel to Highway 172, the configuration of, and congestion along the existing transmission corridors require the team to consider new transmission corridors.

The first of the options will continue rebuild of the existing single-circuit transmission lines along the light green line in a double-circuit 345/138 kV configuration.

The second option will construct the new 345 kV circuit in a new corridor, represented by the orange, light blue, or purple lines. In this option, the existing single circuit 138 kV lines will be rebuilt in their existing corridors.

A third option may consider constructing the new corridors with double-circuit structures and relocating portions of the existing 138 kV circuits along those new corridors shown in orange, light blue, and purple.

Regardless of option chosen, as the new circuit progresses towards the east of Adams County, it will connect back up with the existing 138 kV single circuit line shown in dark green. This portion of the line will be rebuilt, replacing existing single-circuit H-frame structures with double circuit steel monopole structures to carry both the new 345 kV and existing 138 kV circuits.

Now that you’ve learned more about what the colored lines mean, we encourage you to go back to the main map page and provide any feedback or input that would be helpful for our team to know during the routing process.

Map

Click to enlarge

Download Mapbook (PDF) Routing Process Overview (PDF) What we Heard in Adams County (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 40 miles of new or upgraded transmission lines in Adams County.

Map

Click to enlarge

Replacement
Replacing 40 miles of existing lattice structures and wooden H-frame structures with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy.In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will typically be constructed within existing corridors.
New Corridor
Possibility of new 345 kV circuit being routed in new corridors near Quincy.

Structure Snapshot

Two side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 shows the existing 161 kV/138 kV wooden H-frame, with an average height of 40-80ft; average span length between 100-500ft. Structures per mile averages between 9-12 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

Brown County

Routing in Brown County

In general, we are following existing corridors in this area. The orange and purple lines near Pike County are options we are exploring to cross the river instead of following the existing corridor.

Map

Click to enlarge

Download Mapbook (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 20 miles of upgraded transmission lines in Brown County.

Map

Click to enlarge

Replacement
Replacing existing wooden H-frame structures with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy. There are approximately 20 miles in Brown County, 2 miles in Pike County and 1 mile in Morgan County of new or upgraded transmission lines. In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will typically be constructed within existing corridors.
New Corridor
The new 345 kV circuit will be constructed in new corridors to connect separate existing transmission corridors to utilize existing structures to cross the Illinois River. New corridors may be utilized to route the new 345 kV circuit near an existing substation in the village of Meredosia.

Structure Snapshot

Two side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 shows the existing 138 kV wooden H-frame, with an average height of 40-110ft and average span length between 300-700ft. Structures per mile averages between 9-12 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

Pike County

Routing in Pike County

In general, we are following existing corridors in this area. The orange and purple lines are options we are exploring to cross the river instead of following the existing corridor.

Map

Click to enlarge

Download Mapbook (PDF)

Overview

There are approximately 2 miles in Pike County of new or upgraded transmission lines.

Map

Click to enlarge

Replacement
Replacing existing wooden H-frame structures with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy. There are approximately 20 miles in Brown County, 2 miles in Pike County and 1 mile in Morgan County of new or upgraded transmission lines. In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will typically be constructed within existing corridors.
New Corridor
The new 345 kV circuit will be constructed in new corridors to connect separate existing transmission corridors to utilize existing structures to cross the Illinois River. New corridors may be utilized to route the new 345 kV circuit near an existing substation in the village of Meredosia.

Structure Snapshot

Two side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 shows the existing 138 kV wooden H-frame, with an average height of 40-200ft and average span length between 300-900ft. Structures per mile averages between 9-12 miles with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 2 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

Morgan County

Routing in Morgan County

In general, we are following existing corridors in this area. The orange and purple lines are options we are exploring to cross the river instead of following the existing corridor.

Map

Click to enlarge

Download Mapbook (PDF)

Overview

There is approximately 1 mile in Morgan County of new or upgraded transmission lines.

Map

Click to enlarge

Replacement
Replacing existing wooden H-frame structures with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy. There are approximately 20 miles in Brown County, 2 miles in Pike County and 1 mile in Morgan County of new or upgraded transmission lines. In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will typically be constructed within existing corridors.
New Corridor
The new 345 kV circuit will be constructed in new corridors to connect separate existing transmission corridors to utilize existing structures to cross the Illinois River. New corridors may be utilized to route the new 345 kV circuit near an existing substation in the village of Meredosia.

Structure Snapshot

Two side by side structure graphics showing the existing structures and anticipated new structures for the county. Graphics are intended for information purposes only and are not to scale. New structure designs, including number of arms and type of foundation may vary depending on final route, soil conditions, circuit design, and presence of distribution. Graphic 1 shows the existing 138 kV steel monopole, with an average height of 110ft with a conductor clearance of 21ft minimum. Graphic 3 shows the anticipated new structure as a 138/345 kV weathering steel monopole with an average height of 80-140ft and average span length between 800-1100 ft. Structures per mile averages between 5-8 miles with a conductor clearance of 25ft minimum.

Click to enlarge.

Thank You

Your comment is under review and will be added to the map when it's approved.

Program Overview and Benefits

Ameren Transmission Company of Illinois (ATXI) and Ameren Illinois are working together to build a more reliable and resilient energy grid for the future.

The Central Illinois Grid Transformation Program (Program) includes approximately 380 miles of new or upgraded transmission line through Hancock, McDonough, Fulton, Peoria, Tazewell, McLean, Ford, Iroquois, Champaign, Adams, Brown, Pike and Morgan counties. The program also includes building three new substations and upgrades to several existing substations.

Fulfilling a Need

The program will prepare the grid for the future by replacing aging infrastructure, adding transmission capacity to ensure energy reliability and resiliency, and promoting more access to energy sources for communities.

Program Benefits

  • Increasing transmission capacity to meet changing energy needs.
  • Supporting lower energy supply costs.
  • Improving energy reliability for the surrounding region and local communities.
  • Promoting access to diverse energy sources.
  • Growing economic development opportunities.
Program area across Central Illinois

Click on image to enlarge.

Anticipated Schedule

The program is expected to be in-service 2030.

Program schedule

Click on image to enlarge.

Regional Planning Initiative

The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) is an independent member organization that works with midwestern states and Manitoba, Canada, to ensure reliable, resilient and affordable energy for the region. In July of 2022, MISO's Board of Directors unanimously approved $10.3 billion to improve the ability to move electricity across the MISO region from where it is generated to where it is needed - reliably and at the lowest possible cost. Our program is part of the Tranche 1 Portfolio.

What is Energy Reliability?

Our energy grid is similar to our road system in the way it allows energy from generation sources to travel short or long distances, as needed, at any given moment. On the road, when your main route is closed for construction, you review your options and find an alternative. In some cases, alternatives just don't exist, or they can't handle the increased traffic and users experience backups.

The energy grid is no different! If a large storm were to take out multiple transmission or distribution lines or “routes” in your area, local homes and businesses would be served by a lower capacity which could lead to reliability issues in the area.

With this program we can add more capacity or “alternate routes” to meet the changing needs in your community!

Miso Program Map

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Did You Know?

Almost the entire Eastern half of the United States is electrically interconnected.

Electricity is generated within our grid from diverse sources and sent onto the transmission system. After the energy is generated, it is transferred along transmission lines to substations. The substations then convert the energy to a lower voltage and send the energy to area homes, businesses and communities through distribution lines where the electricity is needed.

As communities change and our grid evolves, energy sources transition and new sources of energy are developed, substations are built or upgraded to meet the energy demand and expand the system's ability to handle more energy from various points of generation.

Program Updates

We will be making different types of upgrades through the program area. You can learn more about what's happening in your county by clicking on the interactive map on the main page of this virtual engagement.

Program upgrades

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New Corridors
New 345 kV circuits will be routed in some areas
Replacement
Replacing existing structures with new steel monopoles to carry additional energy
New Wire
Adding new wire to existing structures to carry additional energy
Replace Wire
Replacing wire on existing structures to carry additional energy

Typical New Structures

We anticipate using weathering steel monopole structures. In most instances, the number of structures is lessened with a smaller footprint due to design and longer spans. New structures will be constructed within existing corridors.

Typical New Structures

  • Type: Weathering Steel Monopoles
  • Height: 80-140 ft
  • Average Span Length: 700-900 ft
  • Structures/Mile: 7-8
  • Clearance: 25 ft minimum
  • Foundations: Most structures will be directly embedded into the ground with concrete backfill.

Single Circuit

Single Circuit

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Double Circuit

Double Circuit

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Routing Process

Routing a transmission line is a phased process. Throughout the routing process, our team will work with agencies, community members and landowners, to minimize impacts and develop a final proposed route or primary and alternate routes. The proposed route(s) will be filed with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC).

The goal of the routing process is to take advantage of Opportunities while understanding and minimizing impacts to Sensitivities and adhering to Technical Guidelines and Statutory Requirements.

Use data from publicly available data sources and federal, state and local agencies to create and verify the program area.

Consider existing utility corridors, existing land use, resource areas, natural environment data and field survey data to help minimize impacts while providing a feasible route opportunity.

Create a study area after analyzing and gathering data.

Use data collected from stakeholders and federal, state, and local agencies and the four categories of routing criteria - Opportunities, Sensitivities, Technical Guidelines, and Statutory Requirements - to develop potential Route Corridors.

  • Opportunities
  • Field lines
  • Property lines
  • Section lines
  • Roads
  • Utility corridors
  • Sensitivities
  • Agricultural conflicts
  • Airports/VOR
  • Cemeteries
  • Communication Towers
  • Conservation Areas/Nature
  • Preserves
  • Contaminated Areas
  • Cultural/Historic Resources
  • Planned Development (future)
  • Floodplains (more difficult construction and many times have sensitive species)
  • Forest/Grassland
  • Hospitals
  • IL DNR Resource Lands
  • IL DNR State Parks
  • Karst Areas
  • Levees/Dams
  • Mines/Quarries
  • Pipelines*
  • Railroads*
  • Recreation/Tourism
  • Religious Facilities
  • Residences (especially large clusters of homes)
  • Scenic Roads
  • Schools/Daycares
  • Sensitive Crops
  • Sensitive Species
  • Streams/Wetlands
  • Wells

*Linear features with additional precautions and studies needed.

What is a route corridor? A narrowed area being considered for a transmission line. This is based upon where the line will connect into substations, input gathered during our summer 2023 stakeholder workshops and the opportunities near existing corridors. The route corridor is narrower than the original study area, and wider than the 150-foot right of way that will be needed for the construction, operation, and maintenance of the line.

Using the routing criteria, as well as input received from stakeholders and community members during phase 1 of public engagement, our team developed Preliminary Route Alternatives. Check them out on the main map page of this virtual engagement. Don't forget to click on your county to learn more about what's happening in your area.

Routing Process

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Nearly 85% of the program will be rebuilt using existing corridors. This reduces clearing, vegetation, and new ROW needed. The other 15% of the program includes routing a new line in some areas.

Agency Coordination

Our team coordinates with federal, state and local agencies regarding protected or sensitive resources within the program area. Sometimes additional permits or approvals from these agencies are necessary for construction:

routing process

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Section 404 Clean Water Act Section 10 Rivers and Harbors Act

routing process

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Endangered Species Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and Migratory Bird Treaty Act

routing process

U.S. Illinois Envrionmental Protection Agency
Section 401 Water Quality Certificate and General NPDES Permit for stormwater discharge from construction site

routing process

Illinois Historic Preservation Agency
Section 106 Cultural Resources Review

routing process

Illinois Department of Transportation
Road permits

routing process

Illinois Department of Natural Resources
State protected natural features and species

routing process

Illinois Department of Agriculture
Agricultural Impact Mitigation Agreement (AIMA)

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Local Permits
Erosion control and road crossing

Real Estate

Ameren's real estate team will have several land agents assisting landowners during the entire real estate process for existing and new corridors.

Landowner Discussions

  • Land surveys and studies
  • Access roads
  • Structure/line design
  • Right-of-way clearing
  • Compensation
  • Property restoration

Easements

The typical total easement width for the new structures is 150 feet. The width requested along existing corridors will vary depending on the current easement widths in those locations.

Easements allow our team access for construction, operation and maintenance of the transmission line. In general, the land can continue to be used as before, provided that the use does not interfere with the transmission line.

Real Estate

Construction

Transmission line construction is completed in intermittent phases and will not be constant on landowner property. We will provide more information before construction begins on any landowner property. Construction will begin in 2026.

Preconstruction Surveys

Prior to construction, Ameren will conduct surveys to collect information necessary for construction to start. The field data we collect will help our engineers determine the final design and structure locations and will help to minimize impacts to cultural and biological resources during construction. Examples of types of surveys conducted include:

  • Wildlife Surveys
  • Archaeological Surveys
  • Wetland and Stream Surveys
  • Soil Surveys
  • Property Surveys

Construction

On most structures, there will be six major stages of construction including:

routing process

Survey structure locations, soil borings, vegetation management and access roads

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Assemble structure on the ground

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Dig structure holes

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Lift structure into hole backfill with concrete

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String wires

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Energize line and restore easement

Vegetation Management

Safety and reliability are the driving factors behind managing trees, and other forms of vegetation, around our transmission lines. Trees and other vegetation can damage the line and hinder our ability to deliver electric services safely and reliably. They can make the job of storm restoration more difficult, extend restoration times and pose additional hazards to line crews.

To protect the public and reduce the risk of extended power outages, Ameren has a vegetation management program designed to ensure proper clearances around the lines as required by federal and state agencies. The program reduces the potential for damage and allows access for crews to maintain and repair transmission equipment.

This vegetation management work may include:

  • Mowing
  • Manual and Aerial Trimming
  • Removal of Vegetation
  • Inspections
Learn more about Ameren's vegetation management