Chicago, IL. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Chicago District received a total of $132.4M through the Energy and Water Development Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Act, which provides critical funding for a variety of projects aimed at infrastructure resiliency, environmental sustainability, and economic prosperity across the region.
The appropriations act includes significant allocations for the USACE Chicago District, highlighting the federal government's commitment to advancing key initiatives that directly impact the Great Lakes region. Notable allocations within the bill encompass a wide range of projects, including Investigations, Construction, and Operations & Maintenance activities.
Investigations:
Continuation of the Great Lakes Coastal Resiliency Study across IL, IN, MI, MN, NY, OH, PA, & WI: Building upon previous efforts, this study aims to assess and enhance the resilience of coastal communities across the Great Lakes against natural hazards and climate change impacts.
Initiation of the Chicago Area Waterways Restoration Study in IL: This study focuses on restoring the Chicago Area Waterways, contributing to environmental sustainability and economic revitalization efforts in the region.
Continuation of the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Interbasin Study Oversight Activities in IL: Oversight activities for this crucial study continue, addressing the complex interconnections between the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basins.
Construction:
Sec 219 Environmental Infrastructure Projects in IL & IN: Allocation of funds for environmental infrastructure projects within Cook and Lake Counties in Illinois and Calumet Region in Indiana will support efforts to improve water quality and environmental sustainability in the area.
Initiation of the Flint Creek Dam Sec 206 Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Project in IL: This project aims to restore the aquatic ecosystem in the Flint Creek area, contributing to biodiversity conservation and habitat restoration efforts.
Thornton Reservoir in IL: Continued support for the Thornton Reservoir project underscores efforts to manage stormwater and mitigate flood risks in the region, enhancing community resilience.
Operations & Maintenance:
Operating Funds for 21 Harbors in IL, IN & WI: Essential operating funds ensure the continued maintenance and functionality of 21 harbors across Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin, supporting maritime commerce and recreational activities.
Operating Funds for the CSSC Fish Barrier in IL: Ongoing support for the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal (CSSC) Fish Barrier is crucial for preventing the spread of invasive species and preserving the ecological balance of the waterway.
Operating Funds for Chicago, TJ O’Brien, and Lockport Lock & Dams in IL: Maintenance funds for key lock and dam infrastructure in Illinois to ensure safe and efficient navigation along critical waterways, facilitating commerce and transportation.
Operating Funds for the Three Upper Wabash Projects in IN: Allocation of operating funds for the Upper Wabash projects in Indiana supports water resource management efforts, flood risk management efforts, and ecosystem conservation in the region.
Operating Funds for the Fox River System in WI: Continued support for the Fox River system in Wisconsin enables effective management of water resources, flood risk management efforts, and environmental stewardship efforts.
The USACE Chicago District is committed to the efficient and effective implementation of these vital projects, working collaboratively with stakeholders to achieve shared goals of environmental sustainability, economic prosperity, and community resilience. Additional FY24 funds may be provided to the District projects through work plan allocations.