#United States #Water Treatment #Illinois American Water #Infrastructure Investment #Streator

Illinois American Water Highlights Infrastructure Investments to Ensure Safe Drinking Water in Streator

Last week, Illinois American Water opened its doors to several Illinois General Assembly members at its water treatment plant located in Streator. This event was geared towards showcasing the company's proactive approach to water treatment processes and infrastructure improvements that bolster the delivery of safe and reliable drinking water to residents.

Notable participants included Senator Chris Balkema, Representative Jason R. Bunting, Tim Ruestman, a candidate for Illinois District 105, and a delegate from Representative Dennis Tipsword's office. The tour provided legislators an insightful perspective into the crucial investments made by Illinois American Water to enhance the quality of water provided to the community.

During the tour, attendees observed the ongoing enhancements made at the treatment plant, which play an essential role in ensuring safe drinking water while modernizing existing systems and protecting vital local water resources. Senator Balkema expressed optimism about these investments, stating, "Visiting the American Water plant in Streator gave me confidence in the critical investments being made to meet drinking water regulations across our communities and to keep quality water flowing to our taps." He reiterated the significance of such upgrades in the face of aging infrastructure.

Representative Bunting added, "Supporting the utilities that provide the services and amenities that keep our communities going is important, especially as systems age. I want to thank Illinois American Water for the opportunity to tour the Streator plant and to learn about the ways they are innovating in our community."

Illinois American Water has undertaken substantial upgrades at the Streator Water Treatment Plant to further protect the quality of water for its customers. Recent enhancements include:

• - Ultraviolet Treatment System: This $4.1 million investment added advanced disinfection capabilities to the water treatment process, utilizing ultraviolet light to eliminate bacteria and microorganisms potentially present in the raw water sourced from the Vermilion River.
• - Water Plant Filter Improvements: The completion of these $3.7 million improvements in 2024 upgraded two aging water filters and constructed a new protective structure over the plant's sedimentation and flocculation basins to shield them from environmental elements.

John Killips, Senior Director of Engineering at Illinois American Water, revealed that the company has invested $26.5 million over the last five years into the Streator Water Treatment Plant and its distribution system. He emphasized the importance of such investments for maintaining the ability to offer clean, safe, and reliable water service to about 7,600 customers reliant on the plant.

About American Water

American Water (NYSE: AWK) stands as the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company across the United States, with a legacy dating back to 1886. In 2026, American Water celebrates its 140th anniversary, committed to providing safe, clean, reliable, and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million individuals across 14 states and 19 military installations. With a workforce of around 7,000 professionals, the company leverages its extensive expertise to deliver excellent outcomes for its customers, employees, investors, and stakeholders. For more information, please visit amwater.com and connect with American Water on social platforms, including LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram.

About Illinois American Water

Illinois American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, emerges as the state’s largest regulated water utility, employing around 600 professionals dedicated to providing safe, clean, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services to roughly 1.3 million people. The company also operates a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville.