Ameren Missouri begins project upgrading Columbia's natural gas infrastructure

Project to enhance natural gas service and system reliability for customers near the University of Missouri's campus

Beginning in February, Ameren Missouri crews started a project designed to upgrade 3.6 miles worth of infrastructure near the University of Missouri in Columbia. Slated to conclude this fall, the company is upgrading aging infrastructure in the East Campus area with modern materials designed to enhance natural gas service and system reliability.

“Our proactive approach is ensuring the safe, reliable delivery of natural gas our customers count on every day, while reinforcing our system to meet the demands of tomorrow,” said Pam Harrison, senior director of Gas Operations for Ameren Missouri. “Prudent investments to expand and modernize our system like this continue to help us better serve our customers.”

This project will take place in three phases:

Phase 1 will begin on the east side of the area, between Rockhill Road and Cliff Drive, on Feb. 2, 2026.

Phase 2 will continue from College Avenue to Williams Street in the summer.

Phase 3 will take place in the fall of 2026 in the final area, from Williams Street to Rockhill Road.

Ameren Missouri is working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, City of Columbia and University of Missouri to control traffic near the construction area.

Affected customers have been notified they may experience a short disruption of natural gas service as the improvements are completed. Any disruptions will be restored in a safe and timely manner at no cost to the customer. As a part of the project, some trenching may be needed, but trenchless technology will be used as much as possible to minimize open excavation.

Ameren Missouri’s commitment to restoration efforts is to leave a property in as good or better condition than prior to its construction work. Concerned customers are encouraged to visit ameren.com/customer-service for more information.