Vernon Hills West Pump Station

Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc. (GHA) is collaborating with Lake County Public Works (LCPW) on the Vernon Hills West Pump Station project to replace aging asbestos cement pipes with new, more reliable infrastructure. The project involves the installation of 3,500 feet each of 20-inch and 16-inch force main pipes running parallel to each other.

Extensive preliminary engineering included the evaluation of multiple rehabilitation options, the development of comparative cost estimates, and research into alternative materials and construction methods. GHA also conducted wetland delineation and facilitated the permitting process with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (LCSMC), Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), and the Village of Vernon Hills.

A topographic survey was completed using drone technology, providing current and comprehensive ground data across the corridor. GHA coordinated with several stakeholders to secure necessary easements, including the Village of Vernon Hills, Vernon Hills Park District, and Hawthorn School District 73. Meetings were held with school officials, the Park District, and Village representatives to review the proposed alignment and coordinate both easement approvals and construction schedules.

Careful planning was required to sequence construction activities around the existing asbestos cement lines to maintain uninterrupted service. GHA developed a bypass plan and performed detailed head loss calculations to ensure continuous system operation during switchover. The proposed alignment minimized utility conflicts and ensured seamless integration with the existing infrastructure.

This project enhances the sanitary sewer system’s reliability and service capacity. GHA’s multidisciplinary coordination, attention to regulatory compliance, and detailed engineering support the long-term goals of Lake County Public Works.