Lead-Based Water Service Lines To Be Replaced In Wheaton

WHEATON, IL — Wheaton is kicking off a multi-phase project to replace all the lead-based water service lines throughout the city. City officials say lead-based water lines are not uncommon and that its water is treated to prevent lead seepage, but that the shift will improve water quality for all residents, per an update on Wheaton's website.

Fewer than 1100 of Wheaton's 16,500 water service lines are lead-based. The city plans to replace these lines with copper-based water service lines.

The change comes after the State of Illinois passed a law in 2021 calling for the replacement of all lead water service lines throughout the state.

Homeowners who have lead water service lines will be contacted by city officials beginning in May. Residents with private lines will be able to opt in or out of the replacement.

Next, crews from the city's Water Division will visit the home and set up a service date. The water lines will be replaced using a trenchless method to minimize digging.

"Providing quality infrastructure for everyone in our community is among the City Council’s fundamental goals," Wheaton City Manager Michael Dzugan said in a statement.

He added, "By electing to take on the work and cost of replacing lead service lines on private property alongside our work on public property, the City is helping alleviate the burden that many homeowners would otherwise face on their own."

Wheaton's goal is to have all its lead-based water service lines eliminated by 2031.