North Cook News

At a meeting on November 17, 2025, the Village of Skokie Board received findings from Exponent, an engineering and scientific consulting firm, regarding the February 14, 2025 water transmission main failure near East Prairie Road and Emerson Street.

The Village commissioned Exponent to investigate the cause of the incident and recommend measures to prevent similar problems in the future. According to Exponent’s analysis, “the water loss occurred in the 36-inch transmission main due to the separation of an end cap from a pipe fitting manufactured in 1956. The separation was most likely caused by gradual deterioration of the cap and seal, and inadequate restraining force.” The full report on the February 2025 water main incident is available as a PDF, and Exponent’s presentation can be viewed by the public.

As part of efforts to address potential risks in other parts of its water system, Village staff reviewed records and identified two additional locations with "wye" pipe fittings similar to those involved in the February failure. Crews excavated these sites, analyzed their condition, replaced outdated fittings, and installed new concrete restraints.

Looking ahead, the Village plans to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for engineering and technical services. This assessment will focus on transmission mains that are at least 20 inches in diameter. The goal is to inform risk management strategies and guide rehabilitation planning for Skokie’s water infrastructure.