The event was held at the Willow Springs Municipal Center and showcased the installation of approximately 62,760 square feet of permeable pavers along Willow Boulevard and Market Street.

Campers were guided through interactive sessions that showcased the vital work being done at the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant (WRP), one of the largest and most advanced wastewater treatment facilities in the world.

The public is invited to learn about the region’s water cycle by following the flush to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago’s (MWRD’s) Stickney Water Reclamation Plant.

Team members commuted by bicycle to and from work or used bikes to connect with public transit, recording their trips and miles throughout the competition.

Midway Airport observed 3.25 inches of rain for the day, while the heaviest axis of rainfall in Chicago recorded between 5 and 6 inches of rainfall, most of which fell in a 60 to 90-minute period, according to the NWS.

Willow Springs has replaced traditional paved streets with permeable pavers—adding over 1 million gallons of stormwater storage capacity.

After receiving a general overview about the treatment process, the group embarked on a guided tour of the plant.

The three reservoirs are currently holding more than 2 billion gallons (BG) of water.

The visit marked a significant exchange of ideas between international water management leaders.

The reports provide a detailed overview of the MWRD’s revenues, expenditures and financial position for 2024.