Introduction
Leaders from DuPage and Cook counties have revealed plans for a significant project aimed at transferring control of Lake Michigan water supply to suburban areas, potentially affecting Chicago’s customers. The collaboration involves the DuPage Water Commission and the Northwest Suburban Municipal Joint Action Water Agency.
Project Details
This partnership plans to construct a lake water intake, purification station, and tunnels across the two counties. Commission board Chair Jim Zay expressed enthusiasm about the imminent 15-year Lake Michigan Regional Water Supply Initiative, estimated to cost up to $6 billion and serve over 30 communities.
“It’s a big day for us,” Zay stated, praising the modern water system for its reliability and resilience.
Concerns and Legislation
City officials are skeptical, emphasizing the existing high-quality service provided by the Chicago Department of Water Management since 1983. They highlight the need for state legislation, extended permitting processes, and public funding to facilitate changes.
A spokesperson for Mayor Brandon Johnson said, “Any shift from the current arrangement would be complex.”
Funding and Purchase
The project has received a $1 million Community Project Funding award, secured with the help of U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi. The DuPage Water Commission also acquired the former Green Acres Golf Club in Northbrook, incorporating it into plans to serve more than 30 suburban communities.
Addressing Safety Concerns
Schaumburg Democrat Raja Krishnamoorthi called attention to the need for water safety in relation to microplastics, PFAS, and lead. The planned purification system aims to address such contaminants as regulations evolve.
Engineering Plans
The project includes a water intake in Lake Michigan east of Glencoe, connected to a Northbrook purification facility via an underground tunnel. Finished water will be transported through another tunnel near O’Hare International Airport, reaching suburbs like Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates, eventually arriving at the commission's headquarters in Elmhurst.
Completion is set for 2041, coinciding with the expiry of the commission's contract with the city.
Planning for Future Needs
General Manager Paul May indicated that creating a separate water system would allow for mutual support in emergencies. The city currently sources and purifies Lake Michigan water at the Jardine Water Purification Plant before delivery.
Ownership and Rate Management
Jim Zay highlighted concerns about the reliability of current systems, referencing power issues affecting water delivery. He noted, “They don’t put anything back into the system; that’s the issue.”
Local leaders anticipate gaining ownership would also allow them to control rates, referencing past increases under Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
Hanover Park Mayor Rod Craig noted the impact on budgeting due to previous hikes.
The project is expected to maintain competitive rates, considering inflation over time, potentially expanding service to an additional 20 communities.
Reporter Marni Pyke contributed to this article.