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Wastewater Operations

Protecting Public Health Through Reliable Wastewater Services

The Village of Bolingbrook Public Works Department’s Wastewater Section is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and oversight of the Village’s sanitary sewer collection system, lift stations, and Water Reclamation Facilities.

Wastewater operations are performed around the clock to ensure wastewater is safely collected, treated, and returned to the environment while protecting public health and meeting state and federal environmental requirements.

The Wastewater Section works behind the scenes every day to maintain a reliable wastewater system that serves residents, businesses, and the entire community.

Sanitary Sewer Collection System

The Village maintains an extensive sanitary sewer collection system that transports wastewater from homes and businesses to the Village’s Water Reclamation Facilities.

Public Works responsibilities include:

  • Sewer main inspections.
  • Sewer cleaning and maintenance.
  • Sewer televising and evaluations.
  • Manhole inspections.
  • Sewer repairs.
  • Emergency sewer response.

Water Reclamation Facility Operations

The Village operates three Water Reclamation Facilities that treat wastewater before it is safely returned to the environment.

Operations include:

  • Monitoring treatment processes.
  • Maintaining pumps and equipment.
  • Testing and sampling.
  • Equipment inspections.
  • Preventive maintenance.
  • Regulatory compliance.

Lift Station Operations

The Wastewater Section maintains lift stations throughout the Village that move wastewater through areas where gravity flow is not possible.

Staff perform:

  • Routine inspections.
  • Pump maintenance.
  • Electrical system checks.
  • Alarm monitoring.
  • Emergency response.

24/7 Monitoring and Emergency Response

Wastewater operations require continuous monitoring to protect public health and the environment.

Public Works staff respond to:

  • Sewer backups.
  • Lift station alarms.
  • Equipment failures.
  • Wastewater system emergencies.
  • Environmental concerns.

Preventive Maintenance Program

The Village takes a proactive approach to maintaining its wastewater infrastructure.

Preventive maintenance activities include:

  • Equipment inspections.
  • Pump testing.
  • Cleaning operations.
  • Mechanical repairs.
  • Electrical system maintenance.
  • Long-term infrastructure planning.

Regular maintenance helps reduce failures, extend equipment life, and provide reliable service to the community.

Wastewater Treatment Process

From Your Home Back to Nature: How Wastewater Is Treated

Wastewater treatment is a multi-step process that removes pollutants and protects local waterways.

 1. Homes & Businesses

Wastewater from homes and businesses enters the Village sanitary sewer system through drains, toilets, and plumbing fixtures.

2. Sanitary Sewer Collection System

Wastewater travels through underground sewer mains and lift stations that move flows to the Village’s Water Reclamation Facilities.

3. Preliminary Treatment

Large debris, grit, and unwanted materials are removed to protect treatment equipment.

 4. Biological Treatment

Naturally occurring microorganisms help remove organic material and pollutants from wastewater.

 5. Clarification & Additional Treatment

Solids are separated from the treated water, and additional treatment processes help ensure the water meets required standards.

6. Disinfection & Final Discharge

The treated water is disinfected and safely returned to the environment while meeting Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements.

Environmental Protection

The Wastewater Section plays an important role in protecting local waterways and the environment.

Through proper treatment, monitoring, and maintenance, the Village ensures compliance with:

  • Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) requirements.
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.
  • National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits.

How Residents Can Help

Residents play an important role in protecting the wastewater system.

Please remember:

✔ Only flush toilet paper.

✔ Properly dispose of fats, oils, and grease.

✔ Do not put chemicals or hazardous materials down drains.

✔ Report sewer concerns promptly.

Report a Wastewater Concern

Residents should contact Public Works for:

  • Sewer backups.
  • Sewer odors.
  • Overflow concerns.
  • Damaged sewer infrastructure.
  • Other wastewater-related issues.