Completion of Hebron’s Water Main Replacement Project
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, alongside officials from Hebron, conducted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of a $4.5 million water main replacement project. This project serves Hebron’s Snake Flats neighborhood. Nihab Halilovic, an engineer at the Corps of Engineers’ Calumet Area Office, expressed satisfaction with the project’s timely and budget-conscious completion.
Lt. Col. David Dawes, the commander of the Corps of Engineers’ Chicago District, emphasized the collaboration between federal and town governments and the contractor. The Chicago District of the Corps provided approximately 75% of the project funding. Town Council President John Spinks Jr. acknowledged the project’s importance, particularly for Snake Flats residents. Work began in April 2025, although an early frost delayed road paving until the next year.
Now completed, the project has replaced nearly 9,000 feet of outdated water main with a larger diameter pipe. This upgrade ensures safer drinking water, more stable system pressure, and better fire protection, enhanced by the installation of 10 fire hydrants. The project also included 27 gate valves and the creation of a trail section.
Lt. Col. Dawes highlighted the broader impact of infrastructure on public health and community growth. He credited the assistance of U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan, D-Highland, in securing grants for the project. Mrvan noted the essential role infrastructure plays in economic development and quality of life, supporting clean water and fire protection.
Clerk-Treasurer Jamie Uzelac recognized Mrvan’s staff for their support in identifying funding opportunities and assisting with the grant application. She noted that while the plans had been in the works for years, cost increases during the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a bond issue to cover the town’s financial contribution. Long-time residents, such as Uzelac and Park Board President Linda Brebner, expressed relief at the completion, citing issues with the old system. They welcomed the improvements, including new storm sewers and resurfaced roads.