In the west suburbs of Oswego, Illinois, a wave of optimism is flowing through the community as a groundbreaking new water project takes shape. Local leaders have embarked on an ambitious venture to secure a sustainable water supply for the region, a move that promises to impact the area for generations to come.
For over ten years, meticulous planning has paved the way for this monumental infrastructure project. On Wednesday, the anticipation culminated in the official commencement of construction, marking a significant milestone in the community’s quest for water security. The stakes are high, as the current water source is projected to deplete by 2050, threatening the livelihoods of nearly 90,000 families.
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch
Although the shift to a new water system will result in increased water rates, residents overwhelmingly agree that the benefits outweigh the costs. The prospect of accessing clean water from Lake Michigan is a compelling incentive, one that ensures a stable and reliable water supply for the future.
This ambitious Waterlink project, a $400 million endeavor, involves extending a 30-mile transmission main to channel Lake Michigan’s water to the towns of Montgomery, Oswego, and Yorkville. This initiative comes at a crucial juncture, as officials warn of the impending depletion of the current aquifer, a situation that underscores the urgency of the project.
The community’s commitment to securing a sustainable water source reflects a proactive approach to environmental stewardship and resource management, setting a precedent for other regions facing similar challenges.
“This is the single most important investment or decision that any of us will ever make in elected office,” Montgomery Village President Matt Brolley said.
SEE ALSO: EPA investigating after IL residents report discolored, smelly water coming from faucets for months
Community leaders say that new system will likely double the current water rates residents pay. But for those thinking about the next generation, clean water is priceless.
“We’re going to live here for 20, 30 years, and our kids are going to grow up here. And you know, when we talk about potentially running out of clean water, no one wants to hear that,” Oswego resident Kelly Bertog said.
Officials broke ground on the project, which includes multiple delivery points and requires complex infrastructure work spanning residential neighborhoods and roadways.
Bertog, a father of two, says he’s proud to know his community is getting ahead of the problem.
“They’re going to be taken care of because of all the people here that have been thinking about the clean water and making sure that my kids, and you know, ideally eventually grandkids will have access to clean drinking water,” Bertog said.
“Where I live, I do have Lake Michigan water; it’s definitely worth the rates that you pay for it,” said Jon Rogan, who works in Oswego.
The new Waterlink system is expected to be up and running by 2028
Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.