Grant-funded stormwater infrastructure improvements for homeowners

The Climate Ready Rainscapes program helps Oak Park residents manage stormwater at home using nature-based solutions. Funded by the Village of Oak Park and administered by Greenprint, the program provides grants and technical support for installing rain gardens, bioswales, rain barrels, dry wells and permeable pavement, as well as complementary French drains and downspout disconnections. These nature-based solutions help reduce yard ponding and basement backups, relieve stress on the sewer system and provide environmental and public health benefits.

Greenprint leads all aspects of the program — including design, management, outreach and implementation. This work included updating the program approach and developing an equity strategy aligned with the Village’s climate goals. Ahead of the program launch, Greenprint finalized program materials, set up a contractor training and screening process and created a comprehensive outreach plan.

Each year, the program will assess up to 40 properties, provide customized recommendations to help homeowners prevent water intrusion and improve functionality and oversee contractor installation of nature-based solutions. Participants are eligible for a 50 percent reimbursement of installation costs, up to $2,000. Program performance will be tracked using both qualitative and quantitative metrics to ensure equitable, community-focused outcomes.