Illinois American Water investing over $5.6 million in Metro East to replace miles of water main

Illinois American Water’s Interurban (Metro East) District is investing over $5.6 million to upgrade its water service distribution system. The investment includes replacing and installing over six miles of water main across the southern Illinois service area including Belleville, East St. Louis and Granite City.

According to Karen Cooper, senior manager of field operations and production, Illinois American Water’s water main replacement program focuses on replacing mains where leaks occur, corrosion has caused damage or the size of the pipe isn’t sufficient. Much of the pipe to be replaced will be upsized from 2-inch galvanized pipe to 4-inch and 6-inch ductile iron pipe.

Cooper said, “Continuous investment in our local water infrastructure is critical for ensuring customers receive quality, reliable drinking water service. This work to replace and upgrade water mains will help ensure adequate water pressure and flow to homes, businesses and for fire protection. Water main replacements also help to decrease the occurrence of water main breaks and related traffic and service impact.”

Customers affected directly by the work will be notified via letter about the impact and any necessary steps. The letter will include a local contact for questions.

The map of the targeted area can be found at http://arcg.is/1HuyPT.