Construction is progressing on a nearly $400-MM regional water pipeline that will deliver Lake Michigan water to three growing Illinois communities, with work now active across multiple segments of the 30-mi project.
Construction is progressing on a nearly $400-MM regional water pipeline that will deliver Lake Michigan water to three growing Illinois communities, with work now active across multiple segments of the 30-mi project.
The WaterLink project will extend the DuPage Water Commission system to Montgomery, Oswego and Yorkville, shifting the communities away from the Ironton-Galesville deep sandstone aquifer. According to Positively Naperville, he aquifer is being withdrawn at twice its natural replenishment rate, with water officials warning that some Oswego wells could face supply constraints as early as 2033.
Construction began in December 2025 and is currently underway along three segments in Naperville and Oswego. The project includes transmission mains up to 54 inches in diameter, with approximately 11 mi routed through existing ComEd rights-of-way. Crews will also navigate major highway, railroad and utility corridors and cross the Fox River.
The project is being financed through EPA Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loans, the Illinois State Revolving Fund and local general obligation bonds. Existing municipal wells are expected to remain available as emergency backup supplies after the communities transition to Lake Michigan water, Positively Naperville reported.
Construction is scheduled for completion in 2028. Once operational, the WaterLink system is intended to provide Montgomery, Oswego and Yorkville with a long-term regional drinking water supply capable of supporting future population and economic growth.
