MWRD Agrees to $50 Million in Green Infrastructure Projects in Settlement with EPA

MWRD Agrees to $50 Million in Green Infrastructure Projects in Settlement with EPA

  Thursday, December 22, 2011    Julie Tappendorf

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The EPA announced a settlement with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) to address the problem of raw sewage being released into Chicago area waterways during rain storms. MWRD has also agreed to pay a civil penalty of $675,000 and make an enormous investment in storm water/flood abatement projects.

First, the settlement requires MWRD to implement a $25 million to $50 million green infrastructure program that will reduce storm water runoff in communities.  Among other green infrastructure projects, MWRD agreed to distribute rain barrels and develop projects to build green roofs, install rain gardens, or use pervious paving materials in urban neighborhoods.

Second, the settlement includes a requirement to complete the Deep Tunnel—an enormous public works project designed to detail floodwaters, in a series of stages in 2015, 2017, and 2029. 

Third, the settlement requires MWRD to control trash and debris in overflows using skimmer boats to remove debris from the water so it can be collected and properly managed, making waterways cleaner and healthier.

For more information, check out the DOJ's website.

Post authored by Brent Denzin.