CHICAGO (WLS) -- A controversial pipeline replacement program was approved to move forward Thursday.

The Illinois Commerce Commission halted the Peoples Gas Pipe Replacement Program two years ago because of high cost concerns and fears that cost overruns would be passed onto consumers.

A ruling Thursday determined the program will move forward with safety monitoring.

Peoples Gas says some pipes in Chicago date back to the 1800s, and need to be replaced.

They estimated the current cost of the project to be $10.5 billion.

The ABC7 I-Team has been covering the story for years, including how it could affect consumers' gas bills.