Inspections For Water Mains In Skokie Planned To Prevent Another Failure

SKOKIE, IL — Five months after a water main break flooded Skokie, totalling cars and leaving thousands without water, village officials are working to ensure it doesn't happen again.

In the coming weeks, crews will be assessing the underground water transmission main infrastructure at two locations within the Village's water system. These two locations were identified and selected because of their similarity to the water transmission man that failed in February, which occurred at a joint where the pipeline changes direction.

Residents will see the village's contractor, Joel Kennedy Constructing, working on pipelines at Church Street and East Prairie Road as well as Northshore Sculpture Park, along McCormick Boulevard south of Golf Road.

"The Village’s assessment will result in the proactive replacement of existing water main, fittings and restraints at both locations," the village said.

During construction, water service interruptions to residents and businesses are not anticipated.

Work will begin on July 23 at the Church Street and East Prairie Road location for equipment mobilization and site preparation. Excavation will being on July 28, weather permitting.

Once work is completed at the first location, crews will move to the Sculpture Park location.

The total timeline is expected to take up to three weeks and should be completed by Aug. 15, according to the village. Traffic will be impacted during construction in the following ways:

• East Prairie Road between Golf Road and Church Street will be closed to through traffic and open to local traffic only. Local traffic can access East Prairie Road from north of the work zone. Access will be maintained to all homes and businesses.
• East Prairie Road south of Church Street will not be impacted
• Traffic on Church Street will be shifted south, but will remain open in both directions
• McCormick Boulevard will remain open in both directions; temporary lane closures may be required
• The Sculpture Park multi-use trail will remain open

"The Village appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation as we complete this important infrastructure work," officials said.

See related:

• Relief Available For Businesses Affected By Skokie Water Main Break
• Photo Shows Pipe That Broke And Caused Massive Flood In Skokie, Illinois
• Skokie, Illinois Residents Give Village An Earful In Wake Of Water Main Break, Flooding
• Boil Ordered Issued For Skokie, Illinois After Water Main Break