SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A Canadian company’s quest to build a 170-mile oil pipeline underground through Illinois’ midsection has won the approval of state regulators.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A Canadian company’s quest to build a 170-mile oil pipeline underground through Illinois’ midsection has won the approval of state regulators. The Illinois Commerce Commission on Wednesday approved Calgary-based Enbridge Inc.’s application for the pipeline expected to run from the company’s Pontiac terminal south to a pipeline hub near Patoka in Marion County. At least for now, the commission turned down Enbridge’s request for eminent domain authority, ruling the company should continue negotiating with landowners for easements for the pipeline. The ICC says Enbridge can ask to seek eminent domain if talks fail. The pipeline would run through parts of Livingston, McLean, DeWitt, Macon, Shelby, Christian, Fayette and Marion counties. ______ Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.