Once a fully asphalt-covered lot, the schoolyard has been reimagined into a vibrant, multi-functional green space designed to benefit both students and the environment.

The MWRD Board of Commissioners approved 15 projects that are designed to mitigate flooding through green infrastructure installations.

This vital community effort works to protect and enhance the health of local riverbanks and waterways while educating the public about the importance of clean water, sustainable practices, and the shared responsibility of caring for our environment.

Located on the north bank of the Chicago River at McClurg Court, the fountain was originally constructed in 1989 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the MWRD’s establishment.

This schoolyard improvement is part of the Space to Grow program which transforms CPS schoolyards into dynamic places to learn and play, while also educating students on the importance of green infrastructure to manage stormwater.

Chicago-area residents have been asked to reduce water use, including delaying showers and not doing laundry, as heavy rains fall across the region, with more rain expected throughout the day.

In Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24), Durbin secured a $20 million earmark for MWRD to address excessive flooding in historically underserved communities in the Chicagoland area, including Harvey, South Holland, and Blue Island.

MWRD recommends people delay showers or baths, flush less frequently and wait to run the dishwasher or washing machine.

People can notify the agency by clicking on the “Report an issue” link at the bottom of the page on the MWRD website.