$400 million Illinois water pipeline breaks ground
(UI) — Construction is underway on the WaterLink project, a nearly $400 million regional water infrastructure effort that will deliver Lake Michigan water to Montgomery, Oswego and Yorkville, Illinois, through a new 30-mile transmission pipeline.
Officials from the DuPage Water Commission and participating communities recently marked the start of construction on the project, which is expected to be completed in 2028. The pipeline will provide a long-term water supply alternative to the Ironton-Galesville sandstone aquifer, a groundwater source that has been declining due to withdrawals exceeding natural recharge rates.
LEARN MORE: DuPage Water Commission advances 30-mile Lake Michigan water main
The project includes transmission mains up to 54 inches in diameter crossing multiple counties and municipalities. Approximately 11 miles of pipeline will be installed within existing ComEd rights-of-way. Construction also involves crossings beneath major highways, rail corridors, utility corridors and the Fox River.
Jim Zay, chairman of the DuPage Water Commission, said the project is designed to secure a reliable water source for the region's growing population.
“By securing reliable access to Lake Michigan water for Montgomery, Oswego and Yorkville, we are investing in public health, economic growth and environmental resilience,” Zay said.
According to project officials, water demand forecasts show the aquifer may be unable to meet long-term needs without additional supply sources. Some wells serving the region could face capacity challenges within the next decade.
The project is being funded through a combination of EPA Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act loans, Illinois State Revolving Fund financing and local bonds. Burns & McDonnell is providing program management and construction observation services across 12 construction packages.
Construction began in late 2025 and is currently underway in portions of Naperville, with additional work scheduled along the pipeline corridor over the next several years.
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