Streator drinking water to get $4 million enhancement

Illinois American Water is investing approximately $4 million to construct Ultraviolet disinfection at the Streator water treatment plant.

The new treatment technology will support safe drinking water to residents and businesses. As part of the project, two new UV reactors will be installed and will be capable of treating up to 6 million gallons of water a day. The project is expected to be completed this summer.

According to Brent O’Neill, Director of Engineering for Illinois American Water, UV technology is effective in inhibiting infection-causing microorganisms and adds another layer of protection for customers.

When used to treat drinking water, UV disinfection addresses chlorine-resistant pathogens and microorganisms that could be present in surface water sources. The Streator water treatment facility uses the Vermilion River as its water source.

“There is nothing more important than the quality of the product we deliver to our customers’ taps,” O’Neill said. “This is why we continuously work to upgrade technology and treatment processes to deliver safe drinking water. We are excited to incorporate UV disinfection to our treatment process for particular water sources.”

The project will also help meet more stringent water quality regulations associated with the EPA’s Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule.

O’Neill said Illinois American Water not only meets EPA drinking water guidelines, but also the company “provides water quality which is better than required.”

“Our customers trust us with a critical service,” O’Neill said. “They serve our product to their family, their children. We take our responsibility seriously and are proud to deliver quality drinking water to Illinois homes and businesses.”

For more information about Illinois American Water go to www.illinoisamwater.com.