We are proud to announce that V3 has won a 2026 APWA Chicago Metro Chapter (Suburban Branch) Public Works Project of the Year for our work on the Sugar Creek Watershed/Jackson Pond Expansion project. This annual award promotes excellence in the management, administration, and implementation of public works projects, and we are thrilled to be recognized in the “Environment –$5 Million to $25 Million” category. Learn more about our win and how this complex project exemplifies innovation, resiliency, and environmental stewardship.
Project Overview
The Jackson Pond Expansion Project in Villa Park, Illinois, was undertaken to address chronic flooding in northern neighborhoods identified after severe storm events in 2013. These areas, characterized by depressional topography, repeatedly experienced residential flooding, impacting 61 homes. A conceptual study conducted a decade ago proposed routing stormwater to an expanded Jackson Pond with a new outfall to Sugar Creek, forming the foundation for a multi-phase flood mitigation strategy. This long-term effort aimed to improve stormwater conveyance and storage capacity while preventing downstream impacts.
The project involved expanding the existing detention basin and upgrading the drainage system to enhance inflow and outflow performance and increase flood storage capacity. Major components included significant earthwork with the removal of 54,000 cubic yards of material for pond expansion, installation of up to a 72-inch relief storm sewer connecting the flood prone areas along Addison Avenue and Wisconsin Avenue to the expanded pond, modifications to the outlet structure and overflow swale, and construction of 100 feet of gabion wall for erosion control. Restoration efforts featured fine grading, placement of topsoil, and ecological enhancements through native vegetation planting in the basin, supported by a three-year monitoring program to ensure successful establishment.
Construction Management & Coordination
Construction required meticulous planning and coordination due to its proximity to Jackson Middle School, Willowbrook High School, District 45 Early Education Center, Easterseals and the Islamic Foundation. Safety was paramount, with daily inspections and secure perimeter fencing to protect students and the public. Traffic management strategies included truck routing and staging to minimize congestion during school pick-up and drop-off times. Communication with residents and stakeholders was continuous, utilizing the Village’s CodeRed alert system and direct notifications to keep the community informed of progress and impacts.
Environmental Improvements
Environmental stewardship was central to the project, which not only improved resiliency and reduced flood risk but also incorporated naturalized features to enhance habitat and water quality. The design ensured that increased storage capacity did not adversely affect downstream areas, and additional improvements included replacing lead water services for impacted homes. Challenges such as installing large-diameter storm sewers through fully developed neighborhoods required innovative solutions, including on-the-fly redesigns and adaptive construction techniques. Value engineering measures, such as replacing oversized manholes with elbows and base-T structures, saved time and costs while maintaining functionality.
Project Results
Despite these complexities, the final phase of the project was completed ahead of schedule, achieving substantial completion on October 16, 2025, nearly a month earlier than anticipated. Through innovative design, strong community engagement, and environmental enhancements, the Sugar Creek Watershed / Jackson Pond Project exemplifies excellence in public works and demonstrates a commitment to long-term resiliency and sustainability for the Villa Park community.
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