Water line funds OK'd

BY DAN MORAN
STAFF WRITER

Waukegan - Federal funds have been secured to replace and lower a water line that runs through Waukegan Harbor, an expansion that officials say will both increase service capacity and aid future cleanup and development efforts around the harbor.

Release of the grant was announced Thursday by city officials and U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk, R-Highland Park. The path of the 75-year-old line is currently marked with signs warning boat traffic to avoid a potential collision from deep drafts.

Kirk said in a statement that lowering the line "begins a process that will truly unlock Waukegan's economic potential," as it will allow service expansions that he said will attract investment in the harbor redevelopment.

The expanded water line is also expected to allow service to new business sectors on the western edge of the city. Work on the project is slated to last around six weeks once a contract is awarded.

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