Deerpath Road under U.S. 41 in Lake Forest, IL, often flooded, causing lengthy closures. The problem centered on an outdated 1936 pump station; a unit unable to manage increased rainfall. Simply replacing the station was not enough, so a $18.3 million Illinois Department of Transportation project sought to provide a more comprehensive solution. The new facility, built just east of the old pump station, avoids expensive land costs and homeowner displacement. It features larger pipes, up to 72 inches in width, and connects to two new detention ponds to better manage storm water flow. Since its completion, flooding has ceased, ensuring safer and more reliable travel for the 16,000 vehicles that use the route daily. The project also improved Deerpath Road by resurfacing and widening it, adding dedicated turn lanes at U.S. 41, and enhancing pedestrian and bicycle access. These upgrades, along with environmental and beautification improvements, have reduced congestion, delays, and improved air quality, while increasing community support and infrastructure resilience.
America's Transportation Awards 