Lake County Public Works Spring Newsletter
Welcome to the Spring Edition of the Lake County Public Works (LCPW) newsletter. The warmer weather means construction season is upon us. LCPW has a busy lineup in 2025. Learn more about what is planned below.
2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program
 LCPW plans for projects several years in advance through its Capital Improvement Program (CIP). LCPW water and sewer assets are valued at more than $900 million, making it incredibly important to continue investing in preserving and modernizing this infrastructure so it can serve the community for the years to come.
The newest CIP, covering the next five years, was recently released. View the 2025-2029 CIP to learn more about the projects LCPW will be working on over the next five years.
2025 Project Spotlights
 $15.3 million in water and sewer infrastructure projects will be under construction in 2025. Notable projects include:
Des Plaines River Water Reclamation Facility Improvements This facility, which is pictured above, serves a very important purpose for the community. It processes millions of gallons of wastewater each day. Construction is underway to install new disc filters, covers for secondary clarifiers and a UV disinfection system. These improvements will lessen the chemicals LCPW needs to use in the wastewater treatment process, improve efficiencies and provide additional capacity and better maintenance. Learn more
Gages Lake Water Tower Construction is underway on the 1.25 million gallon water tower near Gages Lake Road. The new water tower will help the area meet the increased water demands due to new development over the years. It also will help ensure local homes and businesses have good water pressure and access to water during emergencies, such as water main breaks and power outages. Construction will continue throughout 2025. Learn more
Pekara Lake Michigan Water Connection A project connecting Lake Michigan water to the Pekara, Inverrary and Horatio Gardens neighborhoods in south-central Lake County is nearing completion. This water system currently operates with wells. Connecting Lake Michigan water can provide many benefits, such as being a reliable water source and aesthetically pleasing while meeting all Illinois EPA (IEPA) and USEPA regulatory requirements. Learn more
White Deer Run Reservoir Construction is progressing on the new White Deer Run Reservoir. The 2-million-gallon water reservoir will provide additional water storage capacity for approximately 25,000 residents and businesses in Vernon Hills and the surrounding areas. This reservoir will be essential to ensuring that users have access to water in the event of increased water demand or emergency circumstances. Construction on the reservoir is expected to be completed later this year. Learn more
Spring Hydrant Flushing Underway
 LCPW has started its semi-annual water hydrant flushing program.
The process is being performed daily, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., per the hydrant flushing schedule and will continue until all water mains throughout our water systems have been flushed.
During and immediately after flushing, you may notice a slight discoloration of your water due to the disturbance in the water main. This is not harmful and will dissipate after a short time. Residents are urged not to do laundry during periods of flushing in your area to avoid staining of clothing, which may occur due to the disturbance in the water main. After flushing, we recommend running cold water for several minutes to clear your pipes.
Signs will be posted in each area before the start of hydrant flushing.
Summer Water Restrictions Start May 15
 From May 15 to September 15 each year, County ordinance prohibits the use of water for outside and landscaping purposes between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Outside water use is also restricted to certain days of the week.
Even-numbered addresses can use outside water on even-numbered days, and odd-numbered addresses can use outside water on odd-numbered days. As we move into the later parts of summer, hotter and drier conditions can be present, which may lead to additional water-use restrictions.
LCPW Announces New Assistant Directors
LCPW is excited to have promoted Emily Karry, P.E. and Marc Bourgault, P.E. to serve as Assistant Public Works Directors.
Emily will serve as the Assistant Director for LCPW and oversee intergovernmental agreements and billing. She brings vast experience spanning over 18 years of work at the County in roles at the Lake County Division of Transportation and LCPW. Emily previously served as LCPW's Assistant Engineering Supervisor.
Marc will serve as the Assistant Director for LCPW Capital Programs and will work closely on planning, design and construction projects. He brings a wealth of experience, including over 30 years of work performed in both the private and public sectors. Previously, Marc served as LCPW's Permit Manager.
Contact Us
The Lake County Public Works Building located at 650 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville is open to the public. Customers may also contact us virtually with any questions or concerns at:
|