Oak Park, a vibrant suburb of Chicago, is renowned for its rich history and architectural gems, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s Unity Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Amidst its historic charm, Oak Park also grapples with one of the oldest water distribution networks in the region, with some infrastructure dating back to the late 19th century. Tasked with the upkeep of this extensive 105-mile network, Michael Bills, Water and Sewer Supervisor, ensures that 54,000 residents receive 1.7 billion gallons of safe drinking water annually. Utilizing a permanently mounted Datalogger, Michael conducts nighttime surveys of the pipe network when the system is quiet. This technology enables the Village of Oak Park to detect and respond to leaks promptly, significantly reducing the time from detection to repair compared to conventional methods, which can take up to a year or more. This proactive approach not only conserves resources but also ensures the continued reliability of the water supply for the community. Read More
