Elgin is set to receive over $11 million in zero-interest loans to replace over 800 lead pipes in the community and ensure a cleaner, safer water supply, State Senator Cristina Castro announced Tuesday.

“Thanks to our advocacy, we are making sure Elgin gets its fair share of federal dollars for replacing lead pipes,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “With this funding, over 800 families will upgrade to stronger, safer infrastructure they can count on to bring clean water into their households.”

During the last quarter of Fiscal Year 2024, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency awarded over $32 million in zero-interest loans to six Illinois communities to fund the replacement of lead service lines. Many homes built prior to 1990 have lead service lines or plumbing fixtures and faucets that contain lead. Because lead is a toxic metal that can enter drinking water when pipes and fixtures corrode, eliminating lead service lines in homes helps to reduce lead exposure for residents, particularly children.

In the 22^nd District, the city of Elgin is receiving $11,134,011 to replace approximately 850 lead service lines. The funding is provided through the Illinois EPA with federal dollars allocated under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. With loans provided at a zero percent interest rate, the communities will not incur any additional fees while the loans are being repaid.

“Elgin is rich with history. Unfortunately, historic districts need to be extra vigilant about lead service lines as many homes were built with plumbing that contains lead,” Castro said. “This funding will support the city’s efforts to maintain our unique architectural and historic integrity while ensuring residents are consuming safe water that is free from toxic lead.”

A complete list of communities receiving zero percent interest loans for lead service line replacement can be found here. To learn more about lead service line replacement in Elgin, click here.