The Town of Cicero officially launched a major water infrastructure improvement project on Monday, April 13, at 14th Street and 48th Court, marking a significant step toward safer, more reliable drinking water for residents.

The project will span along 48th Court from Roosevelt Road to 16th Street and includes the replacement of aging water mains, installation of new fire hydrants, and, most importantly, the removal of lead service lines connecting homes to the water system.

The replacement of the lead service lines will be funded by a $2.7M IEPA forgivable Loan #L176986 and is being performed as required by the EPA Lead and Copper Rule Federal mandate to begin the replacement of all lead service lines across the country starting in 2027. 

Water Commissioner Lido Manetti welcomed residents and officials to the kickoff, emphasizing the importance of the investment and what it means for the community.

“Today marks the beginning of an important project for this neighborhood,” Manetti said. “We are upgrading the water main, installing new hydrants, and replacing lead service lines with new copper lines to ensure safe drinking water for our residents.”