By Chicago Times Magazine –
February 20, 2025
Chicago’s Department of Water Management (DWM) is under scrutiny for a lack of transparency regarding extensive water main and sewer line construction work that failed to comply with state environmental regulations, according to a report from the City of Chicago Office of Inspector General (OIG). The issue involves non-compliance with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) Title 35 regulations, which mandate the separation of water and sewer infrastructure to prevent drinking water contamination.
While experts consulted by the OIG indicated that closely situated water mains and sewer lines don’t necessarily pose an immediate health risk, particularly given the pressurization of the water system, the report highlights past instances of pressure loss that led to boil water orders for Chicago residents.
In 2019, DWM discovered widespread noncompliance with IEPA distance requirements for underground water mains and sewer lines. The department has since cooperated with the IEPA on a remediation plan and continues to address noncompliance as it is discovered, often leading to added time and expense. Records show the city paid a single company over $288 million between 2013 and 2023 for water main installation, even after the widespread noncompliance was discovered. Litigation has also ensued between the city and contractors regarding the necessary corrective work.
The OIG has recommended that DWM improve public and City Council access to information about this issue. The OIG also suggested that DWM, in conjunction with other city departments, provide proactive public education on how residents should respond to water main depressurization events.
DWM responded by affirming the safety of the public water supply and acknowledging the importance of transparency, particularly concerning drinking water safety. The department stated that information regarding the issue, including reports to the IEPA, is publicly available. However, DWM disagreed with the recommendation for proactive public communication on water main and sewer separation, arguing that such communication could dilute the impact of critical alerts, such as boil water orders.
