There’s a persistent misconception that water quality issues are primarily challenges faced by developing countries. In reality, countless communities across the United States, especially those in low-income areas, struggle with inconsistent access to clean, safe drinking water. Aged, outdated infrastructure combined with decades of underinvestment have led to a decline in water quality, which disproportionately affects vulnerable populations.
Income remains one of the strongest social determinants of health. For residents in affordable housing communities, the stakes are higher: bottled water and filtration systems may be financially out of reach, and the health impacts of poor water quality are exacerbated when access to paid sick leave or adequate healthcare is limited.
Recognizing this pressing need, Standard Communities, a national leader in affordable housing, has taken bold steps to ensure quality, health, and sustainability are central to the communities they serve. Founded in 2008, Standard Communities provides high-quality, affordable homes to over 60,000 residents across 21 states.
In 2023, Standard Communities acquired Huntington Towers, a 214-unit senior housing property located at 571 W. Huntington Commons Road in Mount Prospect, Illinois, roughly 20 miles northwest of Chicago. Built in 1978, the property was acquired as part of an initiative to “extend and preserve affordability for over 30 years,” backed by a $16.1 million renovation plan.
The renovations at Huntington Towers were extensive and transformative. Upgrades included new flooring, kitchen countertops, updated appliances, improved lighting, a new rooftop solar system, as well as the addition of community amenities such as a fitness center and business center. One of the most impactful improvements was the installation of point-of-entry UV water purification systems, delivered by Clear Inc., a growing leader in water purification systems for real estate.
Huntington Towers consists of two buildings, each with independent water systems. Clear Inc. designed and installed an RS104 medium-pressure UV purification system in each building’s pump room. These systems treat 100% of the water at the point of entry, ensuring that every tap and shower delivers microbiologically safe water. Clear UV technology destroys 99.9999% of all microorganisms, significantly enhancing water safety and peace of mind for residents.
Beyond purification, the UV systems also help reduce chlorine levels in the water supply, making the water gentler on residents’ skin and hair. To support long-term water safety, a comprehensive water management plan was also implemented, ensuring that water quality is consistently monitored and any potential risks are proactively addressed.
Today, Huntington Towers stands as a powerful reminder of what thoughtful, mission-driven development can achieve. In addition to fully renovated living spaces and vibrant community features—including a library, outdoor pool, and tennis courts—residents now also enjoy the assurance of clean, safe water, right from their taps.
"By integrating Clear's water purification system, we ensure that our residents receive the highest quality water available. This industry-leading system not only enhances water safety but also demonstrates our dedication to providing top-tier amenities at no additional cost to our residents."
— Mike Johnson, Senior Director of Sustainability, Standard Communities
Through innovation, partnership, and a deep commitment to equity, Standard Communities and Clear Inc. have demonstrated that access to clean water, and the dignity it brings, is not a privilege, but a human right.
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