North Chicago begins stormwater project targeting chronic flooding
NORTH CHICAGO, Ill. (UI) — North Chicago has begun construction on the first phase of a multi-stage stormwater infrastructure project aimed at reducing chronic flooding in the Southwest Pettibone Creek watershed.
The project centers on construction of a large detention basin near Lewis Avenue and 20th Street designed to improve drainage capacity and reduce pressure on the area’s aging storm sewer system.
Phase 1 includes excavation, grading and construction of a stormwater basin capable of storing approximately 20.5 acre-feet of water — enough to cover more than 20 football fields with one foot of water. The basin is intended to reduce downstream flooding and improve overall stormwater system performance.
The project will also include environmental upgrades such as wetland vegetation, erosion control measures and installation of a low-flow channel to improve water quality.
Officials said the broader multi-phase project is expected to reduce flooding impacts for hundreds of residences and nearly 1,000 structures once completed.
Mayor Leon Rockingham Jr. said the project addresses longstanding infrastructure challenges tied to the city’s undersized stormwater network.
“This project represents a major step forward in addressing long-standing flooding challenges in our community,” Rockingham said.
Future work under Phase 2 will include replacement of undersized storm sewer infrastructure and pavement restoration designed to improve system performance during major storm events.
The overall project is backed by approximately $5.5 million in Illinois state funding. Construction on the first phase is expected to continue through late summer, weather permitting.
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