Monday, August 14, 2023 | View in browser
 EVANSTON, IL - The City of Evanston filed a lawsuit against Copenhaver Construction, Inc. in 2022 alleging defects in construction of the 2017 Fountain Square renovation project. That action has been pending and proceeding through the discovery process.
At this time, the City will temporarily withdraw its lawsuit against Copenhaver under applicable law and court rules to allow time for settlement discussions and formal mediation proceedings. Court rules permit the City to proceed again with the lawsuit if mediation proves unsuccessful.
The Fountain Square fountain has remained off since spring of 2021, when City staff observed that the fountain was unable to retain water when starting the fountain for the season. The City engaged Christopher B. Burke Engineering to assess the issue and provide a plan for repair. A subsequent forensic engineering study completed by Wiss, Janney, Elstner and Associates, Inc. concluded that the incorrectly sized waterstops inside the fountain were installed and the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation were not followed, causing water loss of up to 4,536 gallons per day. Copenhaver also failed to submit the waterstops to the City for review or approval prior to installation.
The City has determined that extensive repairs are needed to fix the issue, including removal and replacement of granite pavers, existing mechanical systems, electrical systems, and concrete substructure.
For more information, please call or text 847-448-4311. For convenience, residents may simply dial 3-1-1 in Evanston.
Media Contact: Jessie Mayo
jmayo@cityofevanston.org
Phone: 847-448-8041
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