JACKSONVILLE TAKES STEP TOWARD POSSIBLE EAST-SIDE WATER TOWER

JACKSONVILLE, Ill. — Jacksonville city leaders are moving forward with an option on property that could eventually become the site of a new water tower serving the city's east side.

The Jacksonville City Council approved a two-year option involving property at the former A-C Humko industrial site. City officials have been examining ways to address longstanding low-water-pressure concerns affecting residents and industrial users on the east side.

Mayor Andy Ezard says engineers consider the location promising because three water mains come together nearby. City officials also believe grant funding could potentially cover a large portion of the eventual project cost, although the tower itself has not yet been authorized for construction.

The council also continued work on transportation improvements, including pursuit of grant funding for additional street, sidewalk and accessibility work in Jacksonville.