University Park Water Crisis

The water in University Park was legally undrinkable for two years. On June 14, 2019, Aqua Illinois, the private company that provides water to University Park and many other municipalities across the state, issued a Do Not Consume order due to lead levels in the water reaching far above the EPA limit. The water did not comply with federal standards again until December 31, 2021. During this period, residents were able to get free bottled water, provided by Aqua Illinois, from distribution centers with inconvenient operating hours, often in jugs that were too heavy for residents to transport without help. They were given minimal explanation about efforts to prevent lead leaching into the water, leading to even greater concern, confusion, and distrust. University Park serves as an example of how communities of color are impacted by water privatization. This poster presentation will examine the history of University Park and their water utility, causes and developments of the water crisis, and the lasting impacts of the water crisis on the residents in University Park.