The Dakota Access Pipeline project is one step closer to construction with today’s announcement that the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) has granted the necessary permit. Upgrading and expanding pipeline infrastructure is a critical element to further capitalizing on America’s domestic energy resources. The Dakota Access Pipeline will allow us to safely transport crude oil from Bakken region to important markets in Illinois and across the nation.
In addition to benefiting from the creation of thousands of new construction jobs and economic incentives, Illinois will also be home to two key heavy equipment suppliers of the project. Peoria-based Caterpillar, Inc. and Moline-headquartered John Deere have already been contracted to supply more than $200 million in equipment needed to build the pipeline. Purchases of this magnitude will undoubtedly be felt throughout the supply chain, triggering further job creation and product innovation.
The approval of the Dakota Access project in Illinois allows us to further benefit from proven and tested pipeline technology to carry our valuable domestic energy resources.