Health & Fitness
MWRD salutes staff during National Public Works Week May 19 to 25
The MWRD salutes the agency's hard-working professionals during National Public Works Week.
In the late 1800s, public works infrastructure was virtually non-existent. Roads made of dirt or gravel were often impassable, area waterways were polluted and the source of our drinking water was frequently tainted, creating constant risk for public health and safety.
The 20th century brought about major public works projects focused on improvements in sanitation, transportation, water supply, power and communications utilities, all of which combined to improve and sustain the quality of life we now enjoy throughout the country.
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The American Public Works Association has been promoting public works since 1937 to raise public awareness about the role and importance of public works. National Public Works Week is observed each year in May to honor the professionals involved in such projects, and the Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) salute the agency's hard-working professionals who are dedicated to working for millions of area residents.
"Public Works officials, such as those working for the District, operate and maintain infrastructure necessary to ensure the region does not relapse into the state of decay reminiscent of the past,” said MWRD President Kathleen Therese Meany. “The professionals of the District work 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They are unsung heroes, and so it is to their work and dedication that we salute them.”
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The MWRD staff of engineers, biologists, chemists, trades and administrative professionals keep seven water reclamation facilities as well as numerous pumping stations and other facilities operating, providing flood and pollution protection for a service area of 883 square miles.
More information about the MWRD can be found at www.mwrd.org.
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Our water environment…take it personally!
Established in 1889, the MWRD is an award-winning, special purpose government agency responsible for wastewater treatment and stormwater management in Cook County, Illinois.
