CNT In the News

From finger in the dike to real flood-fighting plan

Chicago Tribune - Daily Southtown

For years, the Midlothian residents have battled a rising tide of chronic flooding — and the related lost furniture, cars, appliances and peace of mind — each time the water gushed into their homes, yards and garages. Cleaning up and throwing out following heavy rains has become a way of life for the people who live downstream of Natalie Creek, in the residential area just south of 147th Street and just east of Cicero Avenue.

But at last, there is light — some say a national spotlight — at the end of the long, dark stormwater tunnel. With a new plan in place and a multimillion dollar project expected to be approved in March, those who have endured the wrath of the frequently overbanking Cal Sag tributary may soon be standing on higher ground, metaphorically speaking anyway.

And the rest of the flood-plagued world might want to take notes. Midlothian recently adopted the RainReady Plan, a multipronged plan that promises to alleviate flooding while improving infrastructure and beautifying the village's business district, with the hope of luring new economic development to the area. RainReady Midlothian, designed by CNT, is the first such comprehensive plan in the nation. It calls on residents, village leaders and business owners to work together, said Molly Oshun, RainReady project manager for CNT.
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