Accessibility upgrades at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago’s (MWRD) Sidestream Elevated Pool Aeration (SEPA) Station #3 were unveiled on May 8 in partnership with the City of Blue Island, the Blue Island Disability Committee, the Blue Island Chamber of Commerce, Progress Center for Independent Living and community members.

A new concrete ramp and segmented retaining wall were constructed to create an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant pathway, giving visitors of all ages and abilities safe and convenient access to the popular recreation site. Braille signage was also installed to support visitors with visual impairments.

“This SEPA Station has always been a gathering place, and these upgrades make it even more inviting,” said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. “By adding ADA-compliant features and braille signage, we’re opening the door for more people to experience the natural beauty and educational opportunities along the Cal-Sag Channel. This project reflects the MWRD’s dedication to accessibility, collaboration and environmental stewardship.”

The SEPA station aerates water to support aquatic life and enhances water quality in the Calumet-Sag Channel, while offering a scenic gathering place along the waterway. The MWRD operates five SEPA stations along the Calumet-Sag Channel. From April through October, these facilities collectively pump up to 1.3 billion gallons of water per day, adding 25 tons of oxygen to the Chicago Area Waterway System. At each station, the Cal-Sag Channel’s flow is elevated as much as 17 feet into shallow pools and then cascades over a series of waterfalls.

“The upgrades at SEPA Station #3 reflect the MWRD’s ongoing commitment to improving our facilities so they better serve the public,” said MWRD Vice President Patricia Theresa Flynn. “I was proud to see this project completed with the strong support of Blue Island and our partners. When we invest in accessibility, we invest in people—and that strengthens our entire region.”

“Access to public spaces is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right that guides the path toward inclusion,” said Horacio Esparza, executive director, Progress Center for Independent Living. “When every resident and their needs are considered, inclusion becomes the standard—and dignity the result. And when leadership and local authorities, like those in Blue Island, are truly committed, advocacy becomes not a struggle, but a natural and achievable action.”

Blue Island Mayor Fred Bilotto said the SEPA station park is one of the community’s true hidden gems. 

“It is a public space where residents can gather with friends and family and generally enjoy nature,” said Mayor Bilotto. “The improvements we’re celebrating today will make that experience available to even more people. The new ADA-accessible pathway and braille signage represent more than just construction upgrades — they reflect a commitment to inclusion and ensuring that public spaces are welcoming and accessible to residents of all ages and abilities. On behalf of the City of Blue Island, we appreciate your commitment to strengthening our community and making spaces like this accessible for everyone.”

Robin Jones, the retired director of the Great Lakes ADA Center at the University of Illinois at Chicago, applauded efforts to make the SEPA station accessible. 

“As we approach the 36th anniversary of the ADA, it is exciting to see local communities embracing the spirit of the ADA and assuring that their public spaces are accessible to and useable by everyone,” Jones said.

The station also serves as an economic engine that complements neighborhood businesses and attracts visitors in warmer months.

“Accessible public spaces like SEPA Station #3 are essential to a thriving community,” said Blue Island Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Director Sara Brown. “The Chamber has been a strong advocate for accessibility and inclusive economic growth, and these improvements represent meaningful progress toward that goal. When we invest in accessibility, we strengthen not only quality of life, but also the economic vitality of our local businesses and neighborhoods.”

Long‑time environmental advocate, community organizer, and friend to the Cal‑Sag Channel, Tom Shepherd expressed his gratitude toward the community investment.

On behalf of our community, we extend our sincere thanks to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and the City of Blue Island for their commitment to making this cherished site more accessible,” said Tom Shepherd. “These improvements ensure that people of all ages and abilities can safely enjoy the beauty of the Cal-Sag Channel and the Waterfall Park, reflecting a shared dedication to inclusion and public access.”