University Park Water Crisis

The water in University Park was legally undrinkable for two years. On June 14, 2019, Aqua Illinois, the private company that provides water to University Park and many other municipalities across the state, issued a Do Not Consume order due to lead levels in the water reaching far above the EPA limit. The water did not comply with federal standards again until December 31, 2021. University Park serves as an example of how communities of color are impacted by water privatization in the United States.

Crisis Timeline

Important moments in the crisis

History of Privatization (1959-2004)

After various financial issues with the development, their water utility was sold to Consumers Illinois (now Aqua Illinois).

Pre-Crisis

(2005-2017)

Aqua Illinois decided to switch the University Park water supply from wells to the Kankakee River. Chemical reactions resulted in lead leaching from pipe solder

Lead Levels Detected

(2018)

Elevated lead levels were first detected in August 2018 at 15ppb, right at the EPA action level. No other testing was done until May 2019, when levels reached 131ppb.

Residents Alerted

(2019-2020)

Residents were first alerted June 14 2019. They received limited and confusing information as Aqua tried to get lead levels down. Lawsuits were filed in the fall of 2019.People v. Aqua Illinois reached a settlement, which was not supported by the residents, in the summer of 2024.

Lasting Impacts

With lead levels so highly elevated for so long residents now face the consequences of contamination in their water on their long term health.

What Happens Next

With fallout from the crisis still being felt, residents grapple with the reality of mistrust in their water and of local authority for years to come.

How have the residents of University Park been impacted?

Left out of important decisions: Despite voting against the People v. Aqua settlement, the village had already agreed to the terms of the settlement. Eligible residents could apply for up to $3,500 in repairs to replace their kitchen tap.

Long-term health impacts: No amount of lead in drinking water is safe. Due to the long exposure at very high levels, residents of University Park are at a higher risk for various health issues.

Mistrust of water: Residents will continue to mistrust their water for years to come. Legally, only 90% of homes need to meet the action level requirement, leaving 10% behind.

Justice? Aqua had multiple IEPA violations. A predominantly black community was left with lead in their water for years, receiving minimal media coverage. Aqua had not admitted any guilt. Is there a road to justice for University Park residents