A journey through Calumet City’s stormwater resilience
By: Hugo Coronado
October 25, 2024 / Blogs
October 25, 2024 / Blogs
This tour took place on October 11, 2024 as part of an ongoing series of site visits in collaboration with the Calumet Stormwater Collaborative (CSC). This visit demonstrated how Calumet City has committed to protecting its residents from the challenges of a changing climate through infrastructure interventions seeking to bring sustainable solutions to communities vulnerable to flooding.
Calumet City often faces the harsh reality of flooding due to its low-lying position and weather systems that often bring storms that leave behind significant damage. The recent heavy rain event on September 17, 2023 is still fresh in the minds of residents, as intense downpours submerged entire blocks and led to a state of emergency. However, despite these challenges, Calumet City stands as an example of resiliency.
In response to the increasing severity of storms, driven by climate change, the city has embarked on transformative efforts to enhance its flood resilience. From innovative green infrastructure to critical sewer upgrades, Calumet City is laying the groundwork for a more flood-resistant future. The most recent Calumet Stormwater Collaborative (CSC) tour provided a first-hand look at the projects making this possible and showcased the city’s commitment to adapt, protect, and thrive.
Stop 1: Green Alleys – The Hidden Heroes of Stormwater Management
The tour began with an essential element of Calumet City’s flood defense, the green alleys. These aren’t just typical back streets; they are vital components of the city’s stormwater strategy. Unlike traditional asphalt alleys that contribute to stormwater runoff and flooding, these alleys are paved with permeable surfaces that allow rainwater to infiltrate into the ground. This approach reduces the burden on the city’s drainage systems, preventing localized flooding and helping to manage stormwater more effectively.
Green alleys like these have been developed as part of a broader initiative, following a 2019 University of Illinois study that analyzed local soils and their suitability for green infrastructure. The study helped identify key areas for projects such as green alleys and rain gardens, enabling the city to prioritize high-impact interventions. Funded through partnerships with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) these projects are designed to handle up to 140,000 gallons of water during storms, alleviating pressure on the sewer system.
Importantly, the city prioritizes these green alley installations based on several factors. Cost is a significant consideration, along with the location of flood-prone areas where stormwater management is critical. Additionally, the city must carefully assess the existing infrastructure below the alleys, as underground utilities or pipes can complicate installation and drive-up costs.
Stop 2: Detention Pond – A Quiet Force for Flood Control
Our second stop took us to the detention pond, a key piece of infrastructure that plays a vital role during storms. During heavy rain events, the pond becomes a crucial tool for managing excess stormwater. It temporarily stores water that would otherwise flood streets and homes, providing much-needed protection for the community.
Originally built in the 1970s and upgraded in 2021, this facility now features new pumps and a soon-to-be-installed backup generator, ensuring the basin pumps continue to work throughout the worst storms. The pond can store up to five acre-feet of water, and recent plans call for further expansion to increase its capacity. During the September 2023 storm, the detention pond was filled to capacity, highlighting its critical role in preventing flooding in the surrounding neighborhoods.
In addition to its flood management functions, plans are underway to improve the pond’s intake system and revegetate the area, enhancing both its efficiency and its ecological value.
Stop 3: Lead Service Line Replacement – Ensuring Safe, Clean Water
Next, we visited Calumet City’s ongoing efforts to replace its lead service lines (LSLR). While less visible than the green alleys, these replacements are crucial for public health. Lead pipes, which are common in older communities, pose significant health risks, especially to children. The city has been tackling this issue head-on by securing federal and state funding to make replacements affordable, and in many cases, free for homeowners.
The city’s comprehensive database of lead service lines, required by the USEPA, has been instrumental in prioritizing replacements in areas with the highest concentrations of lead pipes. The project has faced some challenges, including hesitancy from homeowners and logistical issues like the presence of asbestos or water heaters obstructing access to the pipes. However, the city’s outreach efforts, especially in its predominantly Spanish-speaking areas, have been critical in getting residents on board.
Through a combination of grant writing and partnerships with organizations like Farnsworth Group, Calumet City has secured substantial funding for this effort. The first phase, totaling $4 million, has already begun, with full forgiveness from federal funding sources.
Looking Ahead: A Resilient Future for Calumet City
Calumet City’s comprehensive approach to flood resilience, from green infrastructure to crucial sewer upgrades and lead pipe replacements, is a model for how communities can respond to the growing threats posed by climate change. Projects like the green alleys and detention pond don’t just address today’s challenges—they anticipate future storms, making the city more resilient with each new investment.
As the tour concluded, it was clear that Calumet City’s stormwater management efforts are not just about infrastructure, they’re about foresight and commitment. The city has made significant strides in building in-house capacity to secure grants and other funding sources, ensuring vital projects like these are not just concepts but become reality for Calumet City. This success is partly due to their partnership with the Farnsworth Group, which provides the technical expertise needed to refine and implement the city’s plans. Together, they’ve created a model of resilience and adaptability, demonstrating how strategic collaboration can transform a community’s approach to climate challenges.