On Monday, the city of Chicago announced that it will prepare a water testing program soon to determine whether the city’s pipes are partly responsible for problems with lead poisoning.
Following the announcement, Water Management commissioner Tom Powers has announced his resignation. Powers, who has so far served as Emanuel’s sole Water Management commissioner, will be replaced by Barrett Murphy, a deputy who has worked for the city since his appointment by former Mayor Richard M. Daley.
“Over the last five years, Tom has overseen a historic investment in Chicago’s infrastructure that has helped to build a better Chicago and I thank him for his service to the city,” Emanuel said in a statement sent to Chicagoist.
Powers was the mayor’s frequent choice to head infrastructure projects because of his emphasis on working efficiently. Emanuel tasked Powers with doubling water and sewer rebuilding rates over a four-year period.
Powers followed through and oversaw the replacement of 320 miles of water main, 77 miles of sewer main and the lining of 198 miles of existing sewers.
In a statement Emanuel said, “Moving forward, Barrett Murphy’s vast knowledge of and experience within the Department make him the best choice for the job as we continue to implement our 10-year Capital Improvement Program.”
The Chicago Department of Public Health announced the tap water testing program Monday during a presentation to lawyers, physicians, researchers and advocates.
Murphy will begin in an interim capacity on May 1.
