Alleys hold not only a spot for vehicles and garbage cans, but also a critical place to capture thousands of gallons of rainfall each year too, and some are greener than others. The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD), the city of Markham, representatives from Cook County and other community leaders and residents gathered on Aug. 28 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the alley north of 159th Street at Turner Avenue to mark the completion of three new green alleys in the south suburb.

The project transformed traditional impervious alleys into eco-friendly, permeable surfaces designed to better manage stormwater, reduce flooding and enhance neighborhood resilience. The effort reflects Markham’s commitment to sustainable design and climate-conscious stormwater solutions.

“These green alleys are more than just infrastructure improvements. They are an investment in the health, safety and future of Markham families,” said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. “By working together with the city of Markham, we are turning challenges with flooding into opportunities for innovation.”

The Markham alleys replaced 11,700 square feet of impervious surface with permeable pavement, creating an estimated 90,501 gallons of stormwater design retention capacity. The MWRD contributed up to $469,000 toward the $618,597 project.

“The city of Markham is proud to partner with the MWRD on these green alleys,” said Markham Mayor Roger A. Agpawa. “This investment will protect our homes and streets, improve our quality of life, and show that Markham is a city looking toward the future.”

The project will help mitigate flooding and also demonstrate the benefits of green infrastructure. The improvements are the first of two sets of green alleys that have been made possible through the MWRD’s Green Infrastructure Partnership Program.

“As a lifelong resident of the South Suburbs, I know how much flooding impacts our communities,” said MWRD Commissioner Yumeka Brown. “These green alleys are a smart investment that will reduce flooding, protect our families, and show the power of partnerships to improve everyday life for residents.”

The MWRD is now accepting applications for its next round of projects under the Green Infrastructure Partnership Program. Public entities, such as municipalities, townships, county agencies, park districts, school districts, and other government organizations are encouraged to apply. See more information.