BELLEVILLE — Illinois American Water filed a request Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, with the Illinois Commerce Commission seeking approval for new rates to support about $577 million in water and wastewater infrastructure investments through 2027. The utility, which serves more than 1.3 million people across 148 Illinois communities, said the funds would be used to modernize pipelines, upgrade treatment facilities, and address regulatory requirements, including emerging contaminants such as PFAS.
Under the proposal, if approved, typical residential customers using 3,500 gallons of water would see an increase of approximately $14 per month for water service and about $28 per month for wastewater service. The company also plans to offer a discounted rate on the first 2,000 gallons of water used to help low-consumption customers.
Rebecca Losli, president of Illinois American Water, emphasized the importance of the investments.
“These investments directly benefit the communities we proudly serve and provide our customers with even more reliable service and improved water quality — from treatment to the tap,” she said.
The rate request marks the beginning of an 11-month review process by the Illinois Commerce Commission, which includes opportunities for public comment and hearings. Any rate changes must be approved by the commission before taking effect, which is anticipated in January 2027 if authorized.
