Ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrates completion of Glenwood Levee at Arquilla Park; project protects homes along Thorn Creek

MWRD Commissioners unveil a new levee and sewer infrastructure improvements designed to protect Glenwood neighbors from overbank flooding along Thorn Creek — L to R: MWRD Commissioners Beth McElroy Kirkwood, Eira L. Corral Sepúlveda, Yumeka Brown, President Kari K. Steele, Glenwood Mayor Toleda Hart, MWRD Vice President Patricia Theresa Flynn, MWRD Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis and Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller (6th Dist.) unveil a new levee and sewer infrastructure improvements designed to protect Glenwood neighbors from overbank flooding along Thorn Creek.

Community leaders and residents gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Aug. 25 to celebrate the completion of the long-awaited Glenwood Levee at George Arquilla Park. Watch the video.

This vital stormwater management project was made possible through a partnership between the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) and the Village of Glenwood. The newly completed levee provides critical flood protection for 29 structures along Thorn Creek, significantly improving local resilience against severe weather and flooding. The 1,250-foot levee features a 12-foot crest and an average height of 7.5 feet. The project also included the installation of 1,000 feet of storm sewer and various utility upgrades to improve drainage and infrastructure reliability.

“This levee represents what is possible when local governments work together to protect homes, preserve infrastructure and prioritize public safety,” said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. “We are proud to support the Village of Glenwood in delivering long-lasting flood protection to this community.”

In 2023, the MWRD Board of Commissioners approved a revised intergovernmental agreement with the Village of Glenwood, contributing $3.483 million toward the total $5.156 million construction cost. The MWRD also supported property acquisition and design efforts.

“We are grateful to the MWRD for their strong partnership and investment in Glenwood,” said Mayor Toleda Hart. “This project is not only an investment in flood protection but in the future health and safety of our residents.”

The Village of Glenwood contributed to engineering and design, managed construction, and will oversee ongoing maintenance.

“This project is a great example of how strategic investment in stormwater infrastructure can deliver real, measurable benefits to communities,” said MWRD Commissioner Yumeka Brown. “We are committed to working with local partners to reduce flooding and build stronger, more resilient neighborhoods.”

This project reflects the MWRD’s continued commitment to flood mitigation and infrastructure improvements that protect communities and promote regional resilience.

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