Rockies Express Pipeline LLC (REX) is developing a ~16-mile pipeline to connect REX’s existing natural gas infrastructure in Macon County, IL, to facilities in Decatur, IL (the “Project”). Once completed, the Project is expected to provide a reliable and affordable source of natural gas to meet the growing demands of the Decatur area.

The Project will be regulated by federal agencies, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). Construction is expected to begin in September 2026 with an in-service target of September 2027.

REX is a subsidiary of Tallgrass, an energy infrastructure company that has safely operated natural gas infrastructure in Illinois for over a decade.

FERC is the primary federal agency responsible for ensuring reliable, safe, secure and economically efficient energy for consumers at a reasonable cost. FERC authorizes the construction of the pipeline facilities under its jurisdiction and oversees their operation.

The FERC regulatory process involves a detailed review of the proposed design of the pipeline to ensure a high level of safety and a review of any environmental and community impacts. This offers the public and other stakeholders at the federal, state, and local levels several opportunities to submit comments, ask questions, and provide other feedback regarding pipeline projects.

During its review, FERC often requests additional information from the applicant about the project.

Construction of the pipeline would begin after FERC issues a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity and once all required federal, state, and local permits have been obtained.

A step-by-step chart outlining FERC’s regulatory process can be found here and on the Commission’s website.