Revitalizing play spaces and stormwater systems

MWRD’s Suburban Green Schoolyard Pilot Program

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago selected Greenprint to lead a green schoolyard pilot program in Chicago’s suburbs. The program will transform school playgrounds into sustainable spaces that benefit schools, neighborhoods and the environment. Greenprint is responsible for design, engineering and construction management, while developing a long-term program, securing additional funding and resources, and ensuring designs reflect each school community’s vision.

We are working with Morton East High School, Burnham Elementary, Otis P. Graves Elementary/Heritage Middle School and East Leyden High School to design green schoolyards that improve stormwater management and meet each school’s unique needs. To ensure the designs reflect community priorities, our team met with administrators, staff, PTO members and students at each school. Common concerns included flooding that disrupts play and athletic areas, increases maintenance needs and creates health risks from mold and mildew. A lack of shaded outdoor spaces was also a significant issue.

Our plans for each school incorporate proposed improvements such as bioretention basins, underground runoff storage, trees and vegetation to improve air quality and reduce heat, turf athletic fields that remain usable after storms, new playground equipment, permeable rubber surfaces and shaded seating areas. The designs go beyond stormwater management by providing vibrant and functional outdoor spaces.