The Village of Westchester receives Lake Michigan source water, which is treated by the City of Chicago before it’s transmitted to the Broadview-Westchester Joint Water Agency (BWJWA) for further distribution.
Over the coming months, the City of Chicago will implement a change to its water treatment process, transitioning from a blended phosphate to orthophosphate treatment. This modification aims to enhance the protective coating on lead service lines, helping further reduce lead levels for customers in the Village with lead service lines or lead components in faucets, valves, joints, or other private plumbing fixtures.
For years, Chicago has utilized blended phosphates in water treatment to form a protective barrier inside lead service lines, minimizing lead exposure. The change to orthophosphate treatment is expected to maintain this protection and, based on research and coordination with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), improve the effectiveness of drinking water lead level reduction efforts. Phosphates form a barrier between pipes or plumbing fixtures and the water, thereby preventing metals, such as lead, from dissolving into the water.
Orthophosphate is naturally occurring and is already widely used by water treatment plants nationwide and other plants on Lake Michigan. It is a food-grade additive that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration considers safe for human consumption.
As of December 10, Chicago has begun its plans to decrease the amount of polyphosphates and increase the amount of orthophosphates in its phosphate blend. The transition to orthophosphate-only treatment is anticipated to be completed the summer of 2025.
While this transition unfolds, the City of Chicago has assured suburban customers that they will not experience changes in water quality or daily water service. As with any water system change, there may be temporary and minor water discoloration. Should this occur, residents are encouraged to contact the Village of Westchester Head Water Operator, John Fecarotta, by phone at (708) 548-6889 or by email at jfecarotta@westchester-il.gov