Deal Struck to Replace Midla Pipeline

NATCHEZ, MS (AP) — American Midstream Partners will build a new natural gas pipeline that will preserve service to thousands of customers from Winnsboro, Louisiana, to Natchez, Mississippi.

Last year, the Midla Pipeline owners asked the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for permission to abandon the line, citing safety concerns. However, congressional delegations and local officials from both states lobbied the federal agency to deny the application.

American Midstream announced in a news release Wednesday it has an agreement in principle to replace the 8-inch pipeline from Winnsboro to Natchez with a 12-inch pipeline.

The company says areas not served by the new line will be will be connected to other interstate or intrastate pipelines, other gas distribution systems, or offered conversion to propane service.

Federal regulators must approve the project.