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A Resolution Authorizing the Submission of a Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago Green Infrastructure Partnership Program Application for the 2026 Green Alleys Project
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Introduction
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The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) recently released a call for applications for funding for projects to install green infrastructure with applications due March 7, 2025. Staff reviewed future projects already identified in the 5-year Capital Improvement Plan to determine what projects would be the best candidates for applying for these funds. Staff recommends submitting an application for a project which includes the construction of up to six permeable alleys in 2026.
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Recommended Action
Adopt the Resolution.
Prior Board Action
There is no prior Board action associated with this item.
Background
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) announced they would be accepting applications for the Green Infrastructure (GI) Partnership Program to help fund projects that reduce wet-weather flows to combined sewer systems. Examples of typical green infrastructure projects are permeable pavements, rain gardens, bioswales, etc. The Village has previously been awarded MWRD GI funds for the Public Rain Garden project, multiple green alley projects, and the Lot 10 improvement project.
Staff reviewed projects identified in the current 5-year CIP to determine which projects would be a best fit for an MWRD funding application. Staff identified alley improvements as the project that best fit with the grant’s objectives. Staff determined potential green alley locations by identifying alleys already planned for replacement in 2026 or 2027 based on their pavement condition which are also located in areas that likely have sandy soils. Final locations will be determined following a review of geotechnical soil investigations. A project location map is attached.
Timing Considerations
The MWRD Green Infrastructure Partnership Program Application is due March 7, 2025.
Budget Impact
The grant application is for the construction of green alleys in 2026. Should the Village be awarded the grant, the proposed FY26 Budget will include the construction of these green alleys in the Capital Improvement Fund, Public Works - Engineering, Sustainability, Alley Improvements account no. 3095.43780.200.570964.
The construction cost of the six green alleys is estimated at $1,171,000. The Village is requesting MWRD fund 38% of the project’s costs, roughly $440,000, which represents approximately the increased costs for constructing these alleys as green alleys as compared to traditional concrete alleys.
Staffing Impact
There is no staffing impact associated with this item. The item aligns with the department’s core service delivery.
DEI Impact
There is no DEI impact associated with this item.
Community Input
There has been no community input given in relation to this item.
Staff Recommendation
Adopt the Resolution, which will allow for the potential to receive grant funds to cover the cost associated with constructing permeable alleys.
Advantages:
• This Resolution will allow for the submission of the grant application.
Disadvantages:
• Green alleys have additional operational maintenance as compared to traditional concrete alleys. The Public Works Department is already performing these maintenance activities on existing green alleys in the Village.
Alternatives
Alternative 1:
The Board can vote down the resolution.
Advantages:
• Potential savings in operational maintenance of the green alleys.
Disadvantages:
• Misalignment with the Climate Action Plan.
Anticipated Future Actions
Should the Village of Oak Park receive the MWRD grant for this project, the Village will be required to enter into an agreement for the grant. Future years’ budgets will include funds for the construction of this project.
Prepared By: Bill McKenna, Village Engineer/Assistant Public Works Director
Reviewed By: Rob Sproule, Public Works Director
Approved By: Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Resolution - MWRD GreenAlleyGrantApplication
2. Project Location Map