The event is part of Chicago River Day, an annual, region-wide initiative to protect and restore local waterways.

A comprehensive flood mitigation project that officials say will add 4.5 million gallons of floodwater storage capacity for Crestwood and Midlothian was presented to residents.

"Hold The Shower, Chicago: Flood Fears Have City On Drip Alert," Hoodline

“Chicago-area residents asked to delay showers, use less water ahead of storms,” NBC 5 Chicago

“With More Rain Forecasted, MWRD Urges Conservation Of Water,” Journal and Topics

“With More Rain Forecasted, MWRD Urges Conservation Of Water,” WGN

The O’Brien plant opened in October 1928. At the time, it was the largest sewage treatment facility in the world. Nearly a century later, it still serves over 1.3 million people across 143 square miles.

Through the MWRD’s Green Infrastructure Partnership Program, the project will install permeable paver parking lanes capable of capturing up to 112,800 gallons of stormwater per rain event.

MWRD Assistant Director of Engineering Kevin Fitzpatrick appeared on Chicago Tonight to explain how key MWRD infrastructure—such as the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan—operates, highlight ongoing stormwater management initiatives, and describe how the Chicago Area Waterway System provides essential drainage for the region. His segment begins at the 8:14 mark.

Residents are asked to delay showers and baths, flush toilets less frequently and wait to run the dishwasher or washing machine.