St. Charles Approves Sewer Project Amid Emergency

The St. Charles Government Services Committee convened on July 22, 2024, to address critical city infrastructure issues, approve new projects, and provide updates on emergency repairs. Key actions included approval of the Prairie Street Water and Sanitary Sewer Line Project, awarding citywide asphalt patching services, and authorizing a Master Engineering Service Agreement for water and sanitary services.

Major Water Main Break Prompts Immediate Action

During the meeting, city staff reported a significant water main break at Route 25 and Country Club Road, requiring a specialized contractor due to its depth of 15–20 feet.

Key Details:

• Estimated repair cost: Approximately $30,000

• Next step: Final repair cost to be presented at the City Council meeting as a new business item

The emergency repair highlighted the importance of proactive infrastructure planning and reliable contractor support.

Master Engineering Service Agreement Approved

The committee approved the annual Master Engineering Service Agreement to provide professional design and oversight for water and sanitary projects.

Awarded to: Chesin & Associates and ERPurpose:

• Project design and planning

• Construction oversight

• Ensuring compliance with city and regulatory standards

This agreement ensures that St. Charles maintains safe and efficient water and sewer systems.

Prairie Street Water and Sanitary Sewer Line Project

The Prairie Street project received approval with a phased approach to comply with grant funding requirements.

Phase 1: Water and sanitary sewer replacement this fallPhase 2: Road replacement next spring/summer

Project Scope and Details:

• Location: Rand Road to 13th Street

• Funding: Water/sewer and road replacement funds kept separate per grant regulations

• Traffic Impact: One-way traffic and delays; temporary winter pavement installed

• Community Notifications: Letters, message boards, and detour maps for schools

• Budget: Slightly under $2.8 million

The phased plan ensures efficient completion with minimal disruption while maintaining regulatory compliance.

Citywide Asphalt Patching Services Approved

The committee approved asphalt patching services to improve roads throughout St. Charles, including alleys.

Highlights:

• Contractor: Chicagoland Paving

• Bid Rate: $16 per square yard — lowest in seven years

• Coverage: Approximately 24,000 square yards citywide

• Significance: Largest asphalt patching program in the city’s history

The project will enhance road safety, durability, and overall city infrastructure quality.

Key Meeting Decisions at a Glance

Agenda Item	Decision
Omnibus Approval	Approved
Master Engineering Service Agreement	Approved (Chesin & Associates & ER)
Prairie Street Water/Sewer Project	Approved
Asphalt Patching Services	Approved (Chicagoland Paving)
Water Main Break Repair Cost	To be presented at next City Council meeting

Action Items Moving Forward

• Present final water main repair cost at City Council

• Notify businesses and schools about Prairie Street project

• Distribute letters and post message boards once contractor schedule is finalized

Conclusion

The July 22 meeting reflected St. Charles’ proactive approach to city infrastructure challenges. By approving the Prairie Street Water and Sewer Project, securing engineering oversight, and launching the largest citywide asphalt patching program, the committee demonstrates a commitment to safe, reliable, and sustainable urban services. Residents can expect minimal disruption during construction, improved road conditions, and efficient water and sewer services in the months ahead.

FAQs

What emergency repair was discussed at the July 22, 2024 meeting?

The city reported a major water main break at Route 25 and Country Club Road, estimated to cost $30,000 to repair.

What was approved under the Master Engineering Service Agreement?

Chesin & Associates and ER were awarded contracts for project design, oversight, and compliance for water and sanitary projects.

What is included in the Prairie Street Water and Sewer Project?

The project covers water and sewer replacement from Rand Road to 13th Street, followed by road replacement in spring/summer 2025.

How large is the new asphalt patching program?

At $16 per square yard, the program covers 24,000 square yards — the largest asphalt patching effort in St. Charles history.

What are the next steps after the July 22 meeting?

City staff will present the final water main repair cost, notify businesses and schools, and release the Prairie Street project schedule.