As a result of multiple high intensity rain events that exceeded the limited capacity of the Village’s sewer system, the Village has identified engineering solutions including a new storm sewer along 50th Street from East Avenue to Waiola Avenue. Additional necessary components of the project include a pipe around the Hanson Quarry (to be paid for as a result of settlement terms with the quarry) to a planned reservoir in McCook (to be paid for by the MWRD).
For the last several months, the Village has been working closely with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) in an effort to enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement so that the 50th Street and related reservoir projects could begin. There are obstacles to finalizing the agreement, however, President Kuchler recently spoke to MWRD President Kari Steel who acknowledged that La Grange needs flood relief and confirmed that the MWRD wants to work with the Village to find the best solution.
The Village has also met with representatives of Hanson Quarry on several occasions to discuss the project and alternatives, including at the judicial level. The Village has requested that the Quarry partner with and assist La Grange with solving this regional flooding problem.
The Village will continue to report on these efforts as more information becomes available.
For more information regarding the 50th Street Storm Sewer Project and flood mitigation efforts, including Frequently Asked Questions, please visit the Village website.