Illinois American Water is investing over $8 million to upgrade water and wastewater systems in Champaign County. Projects include replacing water mains, increasing water main size and looping and installing sewer main lining.
The company’s Senior Manager of Operations, Brian Wiemers said: “Many communities are facing the need to upgrade pipes and sewer mains for quality service and community growth. Continuous investments support reliable water and wastewater service to our customers.”
More than 24,000 feet, or 4.5 miles, of water main will be replaced across Champaign County. Wiemers added that the upgrades include “larger-sized water mains to support water flow and pressure for water quality and fire protection.” He said: “By planning water main replacements we can address leaks and avoid water waste. This is a safer alternative for our customers and employees than waiting until an emergency occurs.”
Approximately 7,000 feet of sewer lining occurred in Fisher earlier this year. The sewer lining will help improve the wastewater collection system’s integrity and reliability and reduce the potential for backups, infiltration and inflows. This brings the total length of completed sewer main lining projects completed in Fisher to over 14,000 feet.
According to Village of Fisher Mayor Michael Baylor, the sale of the Village of Fisher water and wastewater systems to Illinois American Water in 2018 has benefited the community. He said, “Illinois American Water has helped meet our water and wastewater needs. Their knowledge of providing reliable service to our residents shows in their commitment to public health and the Village of Fisher.”
Illinois American Water acquired the Village of Fisher water and wastewater systems in 2018 and made a commitment to invest approximately $2.9 million in the first five years of ownership. Part of this commitment was wastewater treatment and collection system improvements.
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