Winnetka Homeowners Face Major Sewer Infrastructure Overhaul as Storm Water Management Project Demands Costly Private Line Connections

The Village of Winnetka is undergoing one of its most ambitious infrastructure projects in decades, with far-reaching implications for homeowners throughout the community. Given the progress that has been made in western Winnetka, in April 2024, the Village entered into an agreement with Strand Associates, Inc. to perform a stormwater management study of eastern Winnetka. The intent of this study is to improve stormwater management, reduce stormwater flooding, and improve water quality at the Lake Michigan outfalls.

Understanding the Great Winnetka Sewer Separation Project

The Village built stormwater collection and holding tanks under Duke Childs Field (New Trier’s athletic fields), the Winnetka Park District’s golf course, and behind Crow Island School. This massive undertaking represents a comprehensive approach to managing storm water that has historically caused flooding issues throughout the community.

Most of the flooding that occurs in Winnetka is not related to river flooding or elevated lake levels, but from flash flooding due to severe storm events. During heavy rain, the capacity of the storm sewers is exceeded, and once stormwater starts pooling on the street surface, the potential for that water to infiltrate into the sanitary sewer system increases. This infiltration has been a persistent problem that the new infrastructure aims to address through complete separation of storm and sanitary sewer systems.

Federal Support and Scope of Infrastructure Improvements

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has received a request for funding under the Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program (FMA) from the Village of Winnetka, Cook County, Illinois. FEMA intends to provide funding to support the proposed stormwater system improvements in Winnetka.

The proposed project will take place north of Willow Road along Hamptondale Road, Auburn Road, Kent Road, Hibbard Road, Westmoor Road, Pine Street, Spruce Street, Elm Street, Oak Street, Cherry Street, Ash Street, Berkeley Avenue and Glendale Avenue. Storm sewers will be installed that will range in size from 48 inches in diameter to 8 feet by 4 feet and will be located mainly underneath local roadways.

The Financial Impact on Homeowners

While the Village’s infrastructure improvements are federally supported, homeowners are facing significant out-of-pocket expenses for required private line connections. Most homeowners pay between $1,425 and $5,758 to install a new sewer line. The average cost for installing a sewer line is $3,464, or $50 to $250 per linear foot.

The costs can vary dramatically based on specific property conditions. Sewer line replacement costs in the United States range from $2,450 to $4,870 per 100 feet depending on regional income levels, with a national average of $3,500. Regional income levels drive significant cost variations across the United States, with replacement costs ranging from $2,450 to $4,480 per 100 feet depending on location.

Additional expenses that homeowners must consider include:

• Permits to connect to the city sewer line range from $400 to $1,600, averaging about $1,000.
• The cost to landscape your yard after a sewer line installation can range anywhere from $1,200 to $6,200.
• Excavation: The work required to access underground pipes ranges from $400–$1,200 for 100 linear feet.

Why Professional Sewer Repair Services Are Essential

Given the complexity and cost of these mandatory connections, homeowners need experienced professionals who understand both the technical requirements and local regulations. For residents requiring expert sewer repair winnetka services, working with a qualified contractor is crucial for ensuring compliance with Village standards and avoiding costly mistakes.

Go-Rooter is the trusted and reliable emergency plumber serving Chicago, Cook County, IL. We take great pride in offering our community cost-effective, speedy, and trustworthy plumbing service. We provide a full range of plumbing services, including leak repairs, drain cleaning, sewer line repairs, water heater installations, and 24/7 emergency plumbing. Yes, all our technicians are fully licensed, insured, and trained to handle any plumbing job safely and professionally.

Timeline and Current Project Status

The Winnetka Village Council received an update on Jan. 14 on a stormwater management study, which is currently being conducted by Strand Associates Inc., an engineering and design firm based out of Milwaukee. During the study session, trustees took no action and heard an update from Mike Waldron, a senior associate with Strand, who shared with trustees the latest results of the study that focuses on four specific areas of eastern Winnetka.

Waldron said the public engagement portion of the suggested east side stormwater improvements will be next. He said open houses will likely be held in February and April to get feedback from the community. Waldron said Strand will return to the Village Board in May for a final presentation, with the final report expected by June.

Preparing for the Investment

Homeowners should begin preparing financially for these required connections. A few key elements influence the overall cost of your sewer line replacement project. Here’s what you need to know to help you plan your budget and prepare for potential expenses.

Key factors affecting costs include:

• The length and depth of your sewer line drive replacement costs. Longer pipes typically need more materials and work, ranging from $50–$250 per linear foot, with an average of $150.
• The length of the sewer line you need is the single most important cost factor to consider, as additional linear feet will drive up material and labor costs.
• Permit fees vary by area but range from $100–$1,000. Some cities mandate certain materials or methods, affecting your cost.

The Great Winnetka Sewer Separation Project represents a necessary investment in the community’s long-term flood resilience and environmental protection. While the upfront costs for private line connections are substantial, they’re essential for protecting properties from future flooding and ensuring compliance with updated municipal infrastructure standards. Homeowners are encouraged to start planning early and work with experienced professionals who understand the specific requirements of this complex project.

We offer upfront pricing with no hidden fees. After assessing the issue, we provide a transparent quote before any work begins. For residents facing these mandatory sewer connections, partnering with established professionals ensures the work is completed correctly the first time, protecting both your investment and your property’s long-term value.