Implementing Sustainable Infiltration and Inflow Reduction Programs through Prioritized Sewer Rehabilitation in Oak Lawn, Illinois

The Village of Oak Lawn, Illinois Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining public sanitary sewer infrastructure. Common among suburban villages in the area, sanitary sewer assets are reaching their design life and infiltration/inflow (I/I) resulting from pipe damage are problematic. Consequently, the Village implemented a rehabilitation program to target I/I sources before assets degrade further and cause more severe structural problems (e.g., collapses and blockages). To establish their rehabilitation program, the Village first developed a prioritization method and project implementation framework. Concurrently, Village Engineering and Public Works staff worked to establish a sustaining funding source for sanitary sewer rehabilitation. The program began in 2012 and has since continued annually. This paper will (1) discuss program drivers and goals, (2) present the rehabilitation prioritization process, (3) present the rehabilitation approach, (4) discuss program funding and (5) identify success factors for developing an I/I reduction program.