CBS News Chicago interviews MWRD Director of Engineering Dr. Catherine O'Connor

A new playground is bringing health and wellness opportunities to an Austin elementary school while also functioning as a reservoir for rainwater to protect against future flooding.

MWRD Board of Commissioners and staff gathered in front of the Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building for their fourth annual Juneteenth flag raising Friday.

Milkweed is also a native plant that can help absorb rainwater that would otherwise contribute to flooding.

The contest categories include Best Curb Appeal Gardening, Best Backyard Oasis, Best Herb and Vegetable Garden, Best Pollinator Garden, and Best Bungalow Window Box.

Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis introduced the resolution to recognize the AIDS Garden as the city’s first public monument dedicated to those lost to HIV and those continuing the fight.

Between Memorial Day and Labor Day in 2024, microbial water quality readings in the Chicago and Calumet rivers showed that conditions remained good or low-caution for recreational users on 78 of 101 summer days, according to a report released Friday by local water innovation hub Current.

Chicago-area residents have been asked to reduce water use, including delaying showers and not doing laundry, as heavy rains fall across the region, with more rain expected throughout the day.

In Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24), Durbin secured a $20 million earmark for MWRD to address excessive flooding in historically underserved communities in the Chicagoland area, including Harvey, South Holland, and Blue Island.

MWRD recommends people delay showers or baths, flush less frequently and wait to run the dishwasher or washing machine.