DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — The City of Decatur continues to make improvements to the city's water system.
"We all learned some pretty big lessons from Flint Michigan. Your water supply is very, very important to your life. To your quality of life, to your health as well as the value of your home. We always want to make sure our water is safe and plentiful," said Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe.
The city is using ARPA funding for the multi-million-dollar infrastructure project at the South Water Treatment Plant. This consists of updates and bringing in new technology called Claricones.
"That technology is a much simpler technology. It uses less electricity, less moving parts, and far less operating and maintenance costs," said Keith Alexander, water production manager City of Decatur.
These cone-shaped basins are larger and can produce more drinking water than before. On top of using less electricity and moving parts.
These upgrades will eventually open jobs and opportunities for more business in Decatur.
"Our lake — I'm sure you know — was built because of industry. It was for the Staley manufacturing plant. That allowed for us to bring companies like ADM here. And so, we got several new companies coming to town," said mayor Moore Wolfe.
The Northeast area of Decatur is a hub for industries. The infrastructure project will provide more access to water for incoming companies.
"It's been publicly announced that there are three large new water customers going into the Northeast corner of Decatur. Which is our largest industrial area of the city. We keep getting inquiries regarding potential new developments as well," said Alexander.
With these updates at the water plant, Alexander adds economic development is ahead for Decatur.
"It means more good paying jobs for the City of Decatur. Whenever you get more good paying jobs in your community, your community is going to thrive economically," said Alexander.
To find out more information on the city's next potential steps, you can find out what was discussed at Monday's city council here.
