City increases water main replacement to address lead service line regulations

Aurora's City Council is taking significant steps to address critical water infrastructure issues, particularly concerning the replacement of aging water mains and lead service lines. During a recent committee meeting, officials highlighted the urgent need to increase the annual replacement of water mains from the current three miles to a target of seven to eight miles. This increase is essential to prevent costly leaks and water loss, which have been exacerbated by rising replacement costs.

The council also discussed the implications of new federal and state mandates regarding lead service line replacements. Currently, Aurora is required to replace 3% of its approximately 16,000 lead service lines annually, a target that aligns with state regulations set to begin in 2027. However, a recent federal mandate has increased this requirement to 10%, which could significantly strain the city's resources and budget.

To date, Aurora has successfully secured around $7 million in federal funding to assist with lead service line replacements, allowing for the replacement of 700 lines. The city is committed to removing all lead service lines, as lead exposure poses serious health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women.

In response to new Illinois EPA regulations, the city has also updated its water testing procedures. The revised standards require testing both the first and fifth liters of water from homes with lead service lines, ensuring a more accurate assessment of lead levels. While the city has consistently met previous testing standards, officials anticipate that the new testing methods may reveal higher lead concentrations due to the nature of the sampling.

As Aurora moves forward, the council remains focused on addressing these pressing water infrastructure challenges, ensuring the community's health and safety while navigating the complexities of regulatory changes. The city plans to keep the public informed about ongoing developments and potential adjustments to water rates as they adapt to these new requirements.