Reducing Water Loss In Oak Park, IL: A Data-Driven Approach

Faced with the costly challenge of water loss due to aging infrastructure, the Village of Oak Park, Illinois, took decisive action to reduce leaks in its 105-mile water distribution network. With approximately 20% of its treated Lake Michigan water—350 million gallons annually—lost due to undetected leaks, the village needed an innovative solution. In 2024, Oak Park implemented an advanced acoustic leak detection system, deploying over 500 data loggers to continuously monitor underground pipes. These loggers detect sound waves from leaks, allowing utility teams to identify and repair issues before they escalate.

As a result, Oak Park has successfully located and fixed over fifty previously undetected leaks, improving efficiency and compliance with state water conservation regulations. By embracing real-time data and proactive monitoring, the village is setting a precedent for sustainable water management in the face of aging infrastructure and environmental challenges.