Chicago district advances $13.8m Harvey stormwater basin and sewer separation

Chicago district advances $13.8m Harvey stormwater basin and sewer separationThe MWRD board has authorized the advertisement of a significant flood mitigation project in Harvey, Illinois, while outlining the district's backstop role in facility maintenance.

The project is estimated to cost between $11.4 million and $13.8 million.

Scope includes the Central Park Stormwater detention basin and separate storm sewer improvements.

The infrastructure will protect 209 structures and provide additional capacity by separating combined sewers.

Executive Director John Murray confirmed the district retains authority to perform maintenance and recover costs if the municipality fails to do so.

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) has moved forward with the Central Park Stormwater detention basin and separate storm sewer improvement project in Harvey, Illinois, authorizing the advertisement of the contract. The project carries an estimated cost ranging from $11,408,571 to $13,810,376. Executive Director John Murray detailed the scope of the project, noting that it will benefit 209 structures in the city of Harvey. The work involves installing separate sewers in a combined sewer area, which Murray explained would remove flow from the combined system and provide additional capacity throughout the city. The design features an open-bottom pond that offers both flood control and recreational benefits. This effort aligns with the district’s broader $134.7 million Stormwater Management Fund strategies; over the past decade, MWRD has participated in more than 260 stormwater-related projects protecting over 19,000 structures across Cook County. During the board discussion, Commissioner Davis questioned the potential annual maintenance liabilities for the district should the municipality fail to perform its duties—a relevant concern given the district currently operates 34 stormwater detention reservoirs. Murray clarified that the primary maintenance requirement involves lawn mowing and maintaining the banks of the detention basin. He stated that under the intergovernmental agreement, the district retains the right to step in, perform necessary maintenance, and attempt to recover costs if the local municipality falls short. However, Murray noted that to his knowledge, the district has not yet needed to exercise this option for its stormwater projects. Regarding procurement, Commissioner Corral Sepulveda inquired about the municipality's role in vendor selection. Murray confirmed that the contract will be awarded strictly to the lowest qualified bidder, with no external influence on contractor selection. The board subsequently approved the authority to advertise the contract as part of its consent agenda.