Orland Park Enhances Flood Management with State Grant

Following a series of destructive tornadoes that swept through the southwestern suburb, leading to damages estimated at $1 million over the past month, the Orland Park Village Board took action on Monday. The board approved a grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to tackle flooding issues at Marley Creek.

The village also ratified a local disaster declaration concerning the storms of August 11, aligning with actions taken by Cook and Will counties and other municipalities in the Southland region. The declaration highlights the impact of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes on Orland Park, citing power outages, road hazards, debris, and other public safety concerns.

Mayor Jim Dodge expressed optimism about recovering some of the expenses from the storm damages. He noted the village’s preparedness and resources compared to other suburbs. “Orland Park is fortunate in terms of our staffing and equipment,” Dodge remarked. He acknowledged that many suburbs faced greater challenges.

Efforts are underway to boost storm resilience at two vulnerable sites, Tinley Creek and the Marley Creek Basin. According to Village Manager George Koczwara, stabilization of the bank and water quality improvements are in progress at Tinley Creek. Meanwhile, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has granted the village just over $1 million, required to be utilized by June 30, 2029, for developing a stormwater basin and preservation area near Marley Creek.

The village has acquired unincorporated lands and plans to demolish the former El Cortez restaurant and bus barn buildings this year. Koczwara stated that removing these hazardous structures is crucial for ecological restoration and flood prevention, describing the move as “beneficial on multiple fronts.”

With a total projected cost of about $4 million, the comprehensive project will encompass property purchases, construction of walking trails, and the flood basin. Koczwara anticipates additional grant funding due to their efforts in redeveloping commercially used land into areas with native plantings.

Mayor Dodge emphasized the importance of proactive flood prevention, especially in light of recent severe weather. “With increasing rainfall, we must prioritize stormwater management,” he stressed.