Chicago River Finally Getting Cleaned Up

Once reversed to keep its filth out of the drinking water, the Chicago River is finally getting cleaned up, on orders from the EPA. Now recognized as an asset, re-reversal and clean-up is predicted to infuse the city with $1 billion in investments.

1 minute read

December 1, 2011, 6:00 AM PST

By Judy Chang

"Downtown, a new riverside walk brings tourists and allows office workers to stretch their legs. New waterfront restaurants, and developments such as Chicago's Trump Tower, have been popping up. David Spielfogel, head of policy for the mayor, says that the city already has a spectacular front yard for tourism and recreation in the form of Lake Michigan, and now wants the same thing along its river."

"...in the longer term water quality must improve enough for swimming. Debra Shore, a commissioner at the [Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago], says disinfection is one of a host of expected new water-quality measures."

Thanks to Michael Snidal

FULL STORY: Reflected glory

Saturday, November 26, 2011 in The Economist

Community / Economic Development Environment Government / Politics Urban Development Illinois Chicago Chicago River View More

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