Project Sponsors

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRDGC)

Current Status

The Corps, MWRDGC, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad (BNSF), Canadian National Railroad (CN) and Commonwealth Edison could not reach agreement on terms for acquisition of real estate rights necessary to complete the project.

MWRDGC will complete the project areas where easements from the railroads and ComEd are required.  Real estate acquisition has been completed by MWRDGC and the design is being finalized.

The Corps will close out the completed portions of the project.  

Project Description and Background

The project addresses overbank flooding along the Des Plaines River. Project features include repairs and improvements to an existing levee including removal of existing levee encroachments such as trees, animal burrows and deteriorated concrete structures; driving sheet pile on the landward side of the levee to address seepage and stability concerns; and expansion of the levee toe, which also addresses stability concerns. In April 2013, a large storm event produced more than 9 inches of rain resulting in significant flooding throughout much of the Chicago metropolitan area including the Village of Forest View, which suffered significant damage when the existing Lyons Levee was overtopped.

Project Authorization

Section 205, Flood Control Act of 1948, as amended Continuing Authorities Program (CAP)

Project Manager

Imad Samara

Project Location

Village of Forest View, Illinois

Project Area / Photos

Click map to enlarge.