Series – Underwater in Illinois: Responses to Flooding
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The Illinois Answers Project explores how prepared Chicago and the state are to combat the growing environmental threats its residents face, particularly from the problem of severe flooding.
For this multipart series, reporters interviewed a range of experts on flooding, climate and infrastructure to explore responses to this problem.
A New Wastewater Plant in Carterville Could Stop Sewage Overflows — Why Hasn’t Construction Started Yet?
Carterville reported 40 sanitary sewer overflows in the past decade. City officials have known for years that a new wastewater treatment plant would resolve the issue. They promised it would be operational by last year. But construction hasn’t started yet. Meanwhile, residents deal with flooding and backed up basements.
This Coastal State’s Approach to Flooding May Be a Model for Illinois Communities
Illinois and New Jersey have a problem in common: Flooding, and its devastation on communities. Here, the Illinois Answers Project examines why New Jersey’s work on this front is seen as a national model.
Chatham Flooding Mitigation Program Flounders, But Oak Park Sees Success
A program called RainReady has proven to help mitigate flooding – so much so that there’s a waitlist in Oak Park. But despite Chicago’s promise to launch in 2019, it’s not yet off the ground.
Las Inundaciones Son la Catástrofe Natural Más Amenazadora de Illinois. ¿Estamos Preparados?
Cuando se trata de prevenir inundaciones graves, no hay una solución única. En las próximas semanas, Illinois Answers Project examinará lo que están haciendo los municipios y los departamentos estatales para proteger a sus habitante.
For Many Illinoisans in Flood-Prone Areas, Buyouts Are the Only Way Out
A state government home buyout program has helped hundreds of people move out of harm’s way. But for many, it takes too long.
‘Green Alleys’ Help Prevent Flooding, But Vulnerable Neighborhoods Must Wait in Line
‘It’s a little bit of a shot-in-the-dark implementation strategy,’ a key City Council member said.
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