The Village of Dixmoor, faced with the daunting task of repairing its deteriorating water infrastructure, is set to receive a much-needed boost. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has earmarked $14 million for the renovation and modernization of the village’s water distribution system. This financial injection, led by Director John J. Kim, will significantly enhance the quality of potable water and mitigate public health risks.
A Historic Grant: Delivering Safe Drinking Water
The lion's share of the funding comes as a $10 million grant from Governor Pritzker's monumental Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan. This grant is aimed at addressing significant construction improvements to revamp the aging water distribution system and secure reliable potable water for Dixmoor's residents.
"Every resident has a right to safe and reliable drinking water and functional infrastructure, and our Rebuild Illinois capital plan is investing across the State to correct those inequities. Today, I am proud to announce a total of $14 million in funding that will bring updated and reliable infrastructure to the Village of Dixmoor and remove lead service lines from their distribution system."
Governor of Illinois | JB Pritzker
This fund will allow the installation of Phase 2 pump station improvements such as:
- Upgrading the existing ground storage reservoir
- Constructing a new 750,000-gallon elevated storage tank
- A comprehensive village-wide water meter replacement program
- Replacement of around 40 water valves and 12 fire hydrants
- Substitution of approximately 10,500 feet of 6" and 8" arterial water main with a more robust 12" main.
Illinois.gov reports that these strategic enhancements are designed to reduce the frequency and impact of water main breaks, significantly improving water delivery efficiency.
"Dixmoor has been through a lot but there is finally some light at the end of the tunnel. I thank God, Governor Pritzker and his team, our tremendous Village staff, and Melanie Arnold and the great professionals at Robinson Engineering for all of the work they have done making this grant possible. I also thank the residents of Dixmoor for the patience they have shown. We are closer than ever to finally resolving the water issues that have plagued our community for far too long. I am grateful and humbled by the support Dixmoor has received."
Mayor of Dixmoor | Fitzgerald Roberts
Addressing Lead Hazards: Protecting Public Health
On top of the grant, an additional $4 million in funding is provided via the Illinois EPA's State Revolving Fund (SRF). This scheme provides low-interest loans for drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater projects. However, in this case, the funding is granted as principal forgiveness, meaning Dixmoor won’t have to repay the $4 million.
The focus of this additional fund is on the replacement of an estimated 312 lead service lines within the community. Lead is a harmful metal that can build up in the body over time, posing severe health risks. Its presence in drinking water often results from the corrosion of pipes or fixtures. By replacing the lead service lines, the village will dramatically reduce lead exposure for residents, ensuring healthier living conditions.
A Pledge to Illinoians: A Commitment to Infrastructure Equity
This investment is a testament to the Illinois government's commitment to ensuring every resident's right to safe and reliable drinking water and functional infrastructure. It’s a pivotal step towards addressing infrastructure inequities across the state, aligning with the overarching goals of the Rebuild Illinois capital plan.
The initiative provides an encouraging example of how government agencies can work together to address pressing issues. In this case, the aging water infrastructure of Dixmoor will not only receive a significant upgrade but also incorporate measures to enhance public health, leading to improved quality of life for its residents.
