Byron awarded $2 million for water system improvements
BYRON, Illinois (March 18, 2022) – U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL-16) allocated $2 million in federal funds to the City of Byron to improve its aging water distribution system. Byron's project is among six in the 16th Congressional District to receive Community Project Funding meant to improve infrastructure, agriculture, jobs, the economy and education.
The water improvements project will fix a deteriorating water distribution system by replacing undersized and failing water main within the City's water distribution system. This project will strengthen the potable water system, allowing for better water quality and fire flow protection. These benefits will improve public health and safety.
"From investments in our water systems and infrastructure safety measures to the development of vital equipment and advancing education, these projects are all worthy of funding and my office is thrilled to continue advocating for more like them as we continue through the remainder of my term," said Kinzinger in a news release. "… I'm proud to see these projects get the funding they need and deserve, and I appreciate all the work of my team and our community partners in getting this done."
Byron Mayor John Rickard said the federal funding will cover the entire cost of the project, which will replace 60- to 80-year-old water mains that serve approximately 160 homes over about 25 residential blocks. Fehr Graham helped the City submit information to secure the funding and will complete design and construction engineering services on the project.
"This will make water more dependable for our citizens and will improve our fire safety," Rickard said. "This is really exciting news for the City of Byron. We are grateful to Jason (Stoll) at Fehr Graham's Rochelle office for helping us."
Design engineering is expected to begin later this year. The project is expected to be completed in three to five years.
