What's Happening?
The Homewood Village Board has approved a contract with Kluber Engineering to replace the aging geothermal HVAC system in the fire and police departments. The new system will utilize a hot water/chilled water setup, which is expected to improve ventilation
and provide consistent temperatures throughout the building. The contract, valued at $217,750, includes architectural and engineering services. The existing geothermal system, installed in 2011, has become costly to maintain and repair, prompting the need for replacement. The village has secured $700,000 in grant funding from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to support the project. Kluber Engineering was selected based on its experience with similar projects and previous work with the village.
Why It's Important?
The decision to replace the HVAC system is significant for the Homewood community as it addresses ongoing mechanical failures and temperature inconsistencies that have affected the comfort and efficiency of the fire and police departments. The new system is expected to reduce maintenance costs and improve energy efficiency, which could lead to long-term savings for the village. Additionally, the project is supported by substantial grant funding, reducing the financial burden on local taxpayers. The selection of Kluber Engineering, a firm with relevant experience, suggests a commitment to ensuring the project's success and minimizing disruptions during the transition.
What's Next?
Kluber Engineering will begin preparing construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents, a process expected to take six to eight weeks. Construction is anticipated to start in spring 2027, with completion expected by summer 2028. The village will need to coordinate the project timeline with other planned developments, such as a proposed residential building, to avoid conflicts. The existing geothermal system will remain operational until the new system is fully installed, minimizing disruption to the departments' operations.
