PEORIA, Ill. — Illinois American Water announced Tuesday “forever chemicals” were detected in raw, untreated groundwater at one of the wells serving its Peoria Community Water System, though utility officials emphasized that the treated drinking water delivered to customer homes meets all current safety standards.
On Monday, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) notified Illinois American Water that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a type of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), was detected at 4.6 parts per trillion in untreated groundwater within its system.
Per IEPA requirements, Illinois American Water notified Peoria Community Water System customers via mail or email within the state-mandated timeline.
Utility officials reiterated that the notification pertains strictly to raw groundwater, noting that finished water coming into customer homes continues to meet all current applicable health and drinking water standards.
Looking ahead, Illinois American Water is taking action to comply with state and federal requirements for PFAS in finished drinking water that take effect in April 2029. The company announced plans to invest $92 million through 2029 to install PFAS treatment across multiple water systems, including a $60 million investment dedicated specifically to the Peoria system.
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