From finger in the dike to real flood-fighting plan

For years, the Midlothian residents have battled a rising tide of chronic flooding — and the related lost furniture, cars, appliances and peace of mind — each time the water gushed into their homes, yards and garages.

Cleaning up and throwing out following heavy rains has become a way of life for the people who live downstream of Natalie Creek, in the residential area just south of 147th Street and just east of Cicero Avenue.

But at last, there is light — some say a national spotlight — at the end of the long, dark stormwater tunnel. With a new plan in place and a multimillion dollar project expected to be approved in March, those who have endured the wrath of the frequently overbanking Cal Sag tributary may soon be standing on higher ground, metaphorically speaking anyway…Please click here to read Donna Vickroy’s story in the Tribune/Daily Southtown.