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.

Funds in the amount of $900,000 could be used in FY24 to initiate design to repair corroded sheet pile flood wall previously installed within the levee and apply protective coating to the remaining sheet pile.  Contract award is scheduled for 1QFY24. 

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 will also address stability concerns. The existing levee has repeatedly overtopped causing flooding to primarily commercial and industrial properties. This project also aims to reduce the risk of inter basin flows through a subsurface connection between the Des Plaines River and the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, which is identified as a potential pathway for Invasive Carp transfer.

Project Authorization

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