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Greening Chicago’s Alleys
Permeable surfaces reduce runoff, prevent flooding

Chicago’s Green Alley Program entails replacing the old alleys’ concrete and asphalt with permeable materials. Photo courtesy of CDOT. Click image for larger view.

“Chicago alleys are a bit different from those in many large U.S. cities, in that they are an integral part of the public way,” explained Brian Steele, spokesman for the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT). “Chicago alleys are the back door to residential and commercial buildings, providing access to garages, loading docks, and refuse containers. [They] are well-lit, paved, and generally well-maintained. Because of the access they provide, alleys see a steady stream of both vehicles and pedestrians. During the summer months, some children do play baseball or basketball in some alleys.”

With about 3057 km (1900 mi) of alleys in the Windy City, CDOT — responsible for the upkeep of the alleys — is casting a green eye on the expansive maze of concrete alleyways. Read more

Darrell Phillips, chief operations officer for Paragould Light, Water and Cable (PLWC; Paragould, Ark.), is an outstanding individual, respected by all who have been fortunate enough to work with and for him. His dedication, professionalism, and hard work in the water environment field will be recognized for years to come. Read more

NBP chair Dick Lanyon, WEF President Adam Zabinski, and Florida DEP Director Vivian Garfein were among the attendees at the March 4 ceremony.

On March 4 Orange County Utilities (OCU; Orlando, Fla.) held a ceremony to celebrate the certification of its National Biosolids Partnership (NBP) Environmental Management System (EMS). OCU is the 19th wastewater agency in the United States to be certified by NBP. Read more

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