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January 2026
As we step into the new year, the Lake County Department of Public Works (LCPW) is preparing for a busy and productive 2026. We’re proud to serve you and remain committed to providing safe, reliable water and sewer services every day of the year.
In the months ahead, our teams will continue to work around the clock to respond to weather-related breaks, advance local projects and maintain the systems we rely on. Read on for this winter-themed Public Works newsletter.
Water Main Breaks During the Winter
 Winter is LCPW's busiest season. Crews are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to respond to water main breaks, which increase in frequency during extreme winter cold.
Extreme temperatures cause the ground around water pipes to expand and contract. This movement increases stress on the pipes and can lead to cracks or ruptures. Rapid temperature changes can worsen the issue by shifting the surrounding soil and placing additional pressure on aging infrastructure.
Water main breaks vary in severity. The rarest type, shown in the picture above, occurs when pressure forces water to shoot through the ground into the air until the main is shut off. More commonly, breaks begin as small leaks that grow over time.
LCPW responds promptly to 100+ detected or reported water main breaks annually. As a result, crews work frequently overnight in freezing temperatures. When responding, crews locate the leak, assess the pipe’s condition and repair the damaged pipe. If multiple breaks or severe damage are found, a temporary repair may be made to restore service while planning for a full pipe replacement.
Water main breaks can occur near roadways, sometimes leading to lane closures and other traffic impacts. If you see our crews out, slow down and drive carefully for everyone's safety.
The most effective way to mitigate water main breaks is to conduct regular maintenance and keep the infrastructure up to date. It's a primary reason why LCPW invests in our water systems and is proactively replacing aging water main pipes through its Capital Improvement Program. If you notice a water main break, report it to LCPW by:
- Using the CitizenVue app
- Call 847-377-7500 (after hours: 847-377-7188)
Preventing Frozen Pipes
 Freezing temperatures can potentially cause frozen pipes, which can be very costly to repair.
No matter the material, exposed pipes face the risk of freezing and bursting, causing significant damage. Protect your home this winter by taking the proper precautions.
Water and Sewer Ordinances Updates
 LCPW is inviting customers, businesses and local communities to share feedback on proposed updates to three ordinances.
These ordinances set the rules for how water and sewer systems are built, used and protected. The updates reflect current standards and new state and federal requirements, helping to keep drinking water safe, reduce pollution and support future growth.
Short summaries of each ordinance are available online, along with full draft versions for review. LCPW customer feedback is encouraged and plays an important role in shaping these updates.
Water Changeover Begins for Pekara System
 The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) approved the changeover to Lake Michigan water for the Pekara, Inverrary and Horatio Gardens neighborhoods. With this approval, LCPW has moved forward with the final step of this project.
The water changeover process involves operational adjustments and flushing the water system to remove the remaining well water, ensuring a clean transition to Lake Michigan water. Flushing a water system that serves thousands of customers can be a slow process, especially during cold weather, and is expected to take between two and four months to complete.
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 with any questions or concerns at:
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