“$18 Million, 2nd Phase of Robbins Flood Control Project Advances,” Southland Journal
Southland Journal: The second phase of a major flood control project in south suburban Robbins is advancing after the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) Board of Commissioners voted on January 18 to authorize additional work to remove 140 acres from the floodplain.
The MWRD’s Robbins Heritage Park and Midlothian Creek Restoration Project will help address overbank flooding through a new stormwater park and pond, along with improvements to Midlothian Creek and an overflow channel that connects to the Cal-Sag Channel. The authorization marks the beginning of the second phase of work, estimated at $18.1 million, and designed to safeguard homes and businesses.
“The MWRD prioritizes flood relief for communities most at risk of flooding, and Robbins has endured its share of floods,” said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. “We are also committed to ensuring that historically overlooked communities are not left behind, and this project is a powerful example of how we can invest in resilient infrastructure that improves the lives of residents. We look forward to a competitive bidding process for all qualified contractors.”
The next phase of work will include critical improvements to the existing Midlothian Creek, while also connecting the new diversion channel to a new stormwater pond south of 135th Street east of Kedzie Avenue. To the west of Kedzie, between 137th and 139th streets, the MWRD will construct rain gardens and vegetated swales to absorb more stormwater. The project aims to significantly increase the drainage system’s capacity in Robbins.
Village President Darren E. Bryant hails MWRD’s “commitment” to Robbins.
“The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago has been a true partner in the effort to protect our residents and businesses from future flooding,” said Bryant. “This project is a testament to the MWRD’s dedication to the Village of Robbins and its future.”
Upon completion, the total estimated cost of the Robbins Heritage Park and Midlothian Creek Restoration Project is expected to be about $30 million. The project will provide flood relief to 92 homes and businesses, remove approximately 140 acres from the floodplain, and more than 1,300 parcels from the 100-year floodplain for an estimated 92 structures in Robbins. The MWRD expects to complete the project by late 2025.