Multiple Illinois Cities Detect Elevated Lead Levels in Drinking Water

Several Illinois cities, including Aurora, Elgin, and Peoria, have reported elevated lead levels in drinking water samples, prompting public alerts and remediation efforts. Aurora found unacceptable lead concentrations in over 10% of sampled homes, attributed to lead or galvanized metal service lines, and has been actively replacing these lines since 2018. Similarly, Elgin reported nearly half of tested homes with lead levels exceeding federal limits and is undertaking a $150 million program to replace lead service lines at no cost to residents, alongside providing filters and testing services. Peoria's water utility detected elevated lead in 14 of 103 samples, leading to a drinking water notice and additional testing and corrosion control assessments. Officials emphasize that lead contamination stems from aging service lines and plumbing, not the treated water supplied by city plants, and recommend flushing taps and using certified filters to reduce exposure. These developments highlight ongoing challenges in ensuring safe drinking water, with public health advocates stressing there is no safe level of lead exposure, especially for children and vulnerable populations.