Illinois American Water invests $34 million in Alton water and wastewater upgrades

ALTON, Ill. (UI) — Illinois American Water is ramping up its investment in water and wastewater infrastructure in the Alton District, committing over $34 million in the past two years.

Key projects include the installation of ultraviolet treatment equipment at the Alton water treatment plant, a sewer separation initiative in downtown Alton, and a water main replacement on 9th Street.

“Our focus in the Alton District, and throughout the state, continues to be to proactively invest in our water and wastewater systems to maintain high levels of water quality, reliability, and customer service,” said Brent O’Neill, Director of Engineering at Illinois American Water.

Recent projects in Alton District

  • Ultraviolet Water Treatment Improvements: This project aligned with updated Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, necessitating enhanced treatment at the Alton Water Treatment Plant. It introduced advanced ultraviolet equipment to effectively disinfect raw Mississippi River water without additional chemicals. Construction began in 2020 and was certified by the Illinois EPA in 2022, costing $6.4 million.
  • Piasa Valley Sewer Separation Project: Aimed at reducing stormwater impact on the sewer system, this $31.8 million project was part of a mandatory Long-Term Control Plan required by the Illinois EPA. It involved installing nearly 18,000 feet of new sewer piping and 126 sanitary manholes, while also repairing sections of the historic Piasa Tunnel. Construction commenced in 2021 and concluded in August 2024.
  • Alton Wastewater Plant Effluent Line Rehabilitation: This project rehabilitated a 42-inch effluent line that transmits treated water to the Mississippi River, installing a new liner for stabilization. Construction started in 2023 and wrapped up in early 2024 at a cost of $3.11 million.
  • 9th Street Water Main Replacement: This project replaced 1,500 feet of an aging cast iron main with ductile iron pipe along 9th Street. Work commenced in late 2023 and finished in early 2024, totaling $1.8 million.

Illinois American Water continues to prioritize the improvement of Alton's water and wastewater systems, ensuring high-quality service for its residents.

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