Illinois American Water to invest $8.5m to boost service in Champaign County

Illinois American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, has announced its plans to invest $8.5m in enhancing water service and protecting local water resources in Champaign County.

Under this plan announced on Earth Day, the firm will upgrade water treatment infrastructure and incorporate water reuse at the Mattis Avenue Water Treatment Plant.

According to the firm, a new recycle pump station will enable water used in the treatment process, such as to flush treatment basins, to be tapped and reused.

Illinois American Water senior manager for the eastern division Brian Wiemers said: “At Illinois American Water, every day is Earth Day. We know how precious a resource water is, specifically the Mahomet Aquifer, and it’s important we do our part to protect it.

“Once the recycle pump station is placed into service later this year, we expect to reduce our demand on the aquifer by approximately 500,000 gallons per day – that’s 182 million gallons a year.”

The other work at the water treatment plant includes replacing the lime feed and carbon dioxide feed systems, which were installed several decades ago.

These systems treat water hardness and control pH levels in drinking water.

Wiemers added: “It’s critical we continue to upgrade our water treatment facilities to ensure our customers receive the same, great-tasting water they’ve come to expect.”

The Mattis Avenue Water Treatment Plant won the 15-County Water Supply Operators Association regional drinking water competition in 2019 and 2020. Water samples were judged on taste, odour and clarity.

According to EPA, water utilities in the country will need to make over $384bn investments in infrastructure by 2030 for ensuring public health.