Elgin, IL

Elgin, Illinois

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Elgin, Illinois Case Study

Example of a comprehensive initiative to safeguard public health.

In response to elevated lead levels detected in its drinking water, the City of Elgin, Illinois, launched a comprehensive initiative to safeguard public health. This program includes free water testing, the distribution of pitcher filter kits, and an accelerated lead service line replacement plan. By proactively engaging the community and implementing swift measures, Elgin effectively addressed immediate concerns while laying the groundwork for long-term solutions.

Project Overview

Elevated lead levels in Elgin’s drinking water system were first detected in 2022, prompting the city to take proactive steps to better understand and address the issue. In 2023, Elgin partnered with 120Water to launch a comprehensive lead service line inventory and sampling program. When routine monitoring in late 2024 again showed elevated lead concentrations, with 67 percent of sampled homes exceeding the EPA’s action level of 15 parts per billion, the city accelerated its efforts to identify and replace lead service lines across the community.

Background

Project Implementation

Elgin’s response was multifaceted, focusing on both immediate risk mitigation and long-term infrastructure improvements:

  1. Free Water Testing and Filter Distribution: Residents, especially those in homes built before 1988, were offered complimentary water testing kits and pitcher filters certified to NSF/ANSI standards. This initiative aimed to identify lead presence and provide immediate remediation tools to affected households. ‍

  2. Enhanced Communication and Community Engagement: The city utilized platforms like 120Water to share information, manage testing data, and maintain transparent communication with residents. This approach ensured timely updates and fostered community trust. 

  3. Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) Program: Elgin committed to an accelerated, multi-year, $150 million plan to replace all lead service lines at no cost to homeowners. Elgin started its LSLR program in 2022, and replaced approximately 400 lines that year. Approximately 900 service lines were replaced in 2024, with similar targets set for subsequent years. 

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Funding

How to fund something like this… Where does it come from? Who is paying?? We need answers! Here they are below!

  • In September 2024, the EPA announced a partnership with Elgin as part of the “Get the Lead Out” initiative. This collaboration aims to accelerate the identification and replacement of lead pipes, bolstering the city’s efforts to enhance public health.

  • Additionally, in July 2024, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi secured $959,752 in federal community project funding for Elgin. This funding will replace about 70 lead service lines, starting with low-to-moderate-income households. 

  • Furthermore, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) has been instrumental in supporting Elgin’s LSLR efforts. The city has received multiple principle forgiveness loans and zero-interest loans from the IEPA to facilitate the replacement of lead service lines, significantly reducing the financial impact on the community.

Elgin’s strategic approach to securing diverse funding sources underscores its commitment to providing safe drinking water and protecting public health.

Elgin by the Numbers

  • Lead Exceedance: In the latter half of 2024, 67% of sampled homes exceeded the EPA’s lead action level, with a 90th percentile lead concentration of 54.0 ppb.‍

  • Filter Distribution: Over 5,000 pitcher filter kits were distributed to residents, including 3,433 distributed through the 120Water platform with additional filters distributed during LSLR projects, meter replacements and at public events.‍

  • Service Line Replacements: Since 2018, approximately 2,830 lead service lines have been replaced, with over 900 completed in 2024 and plans for an additional 900 in 2025.

Best Practices Implemented

  1. Rapid Response: Upon detecting elevated lead levels, Elgin swiftly offered free water testing and filters, addressing immediate health concerns and demonstrating a commitment to resident safety.‍

  1. Transparent Communication: Utilizing the 120Water platform, the city maintained open lines of communication, providing residents with timely updates and resources, thereby reducing misinformation and building trust. ‍

  2. Comprehensive Planning: The city developed a long-term strategy to eliminate lead exposure risks, including a fully funded LSLR program and ongoing water quality monitoring.‍

  3. Community Engagement: By actively involving residents through educational initiatives and accessible resources, Elgin empowered the community to participate in lead mitigation efforts.

Conclusion

Elgin’s proactive approach serves as a model for communities facing similar challenges. By swiftly implementing free water testing, distributing certified pitcher filters, and committing to comprehensive infrastructure improvements, the city effectively protected its residents from lead exposure. The City of Elgin’s actions underscore the importance of rapid response, transparent communication, and long-term planning in safeguarding public health.

Recommendations for Other Communities

Establish Immediate Mitigation Measures: Offer free water testing and certified filters to residents, prioritizing vulnerable population.

Develop Transparent Communication Channels: Utilize platforms to manage data and keep the community informed, reducing fear and misinformation.

Commit to Long-Term Infrastructure Upgrades: Implement comprehensive LSLR programs with clear timelines and funding strategies to ensure sustainable public health improvements.

Engage the Community: Involve residents in the process through educational initiatives and accessible resources, fostering trust and collaboration.

By adopting these best practices, communities can effectively reduce lead exposure from drinking water and protect the health of their residents.