Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Mcr Mccook Tarp topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
MWRD says McCook reservoir expansion ready but mining delays may push back 2029 target
Summary
MWRD officials told Lyons Township leaders that McCook Reservoir stage two — an expansion from the existing 3.5 billion gallons to 10 billion gallons — is ready to proceed but mining slowdowns at a quarry operator may delay a previously anticipated 2029 online date; MWRD highlighted dozens of local stormwater projects and property‑acquisition work.
Officials from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) updated Lyons Township leaders on regional stormwater investments and the status of the McCook Reservoir, the last remaining major element of the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP).
Vice President Teresa Flynn said MWRD treats wastewater and manages stormwater across the region and has partnered on more than 20 projects in Lyons Township protecting over 700 structures, and described county and local partnerships that have leveraged federal and local funds. "We have been safeguarding the water environment for over 136 years," she said, and described local work ranging from green alley reconstructions to flood‑prone property acquisitions.
MWRD engineers described flood‑prone property acquisition programs that target repetitive‑loss homes; the presenters said the agency had targeted 26 properties in one neighborhood, acquiring six so far, and is using acquisitions plus green infrastructure to reduce sewer loads.
On the McCook Reservoir, presenters said stage one (3.5 billion gallons) is complete and stage two — an expansion to 10 billion gallons — is ready to be brought online as soon as mining and other site work are finished. However, engineers said a local quarry operator (Vulcan) has reduced mining activity and has not provided a revised schedule, meaning the previously cited 2029 completion date for stage two may be at risk. "2029 looks like it may be in jeopardy," a presenter said.
MWRD also outlined partnership programs that help communities plan and construct stormwater sewers, detention basins, and green infrastructure, and noted pilot suburban green schoolyard projects and ARPA funds used to accelerate work. The agency encouraged municipalities and property owners to engage with MWRD staff about project application windows and technical assistance.
