2009 Press Release: New Materials Pave the Way For "Green" Alleys in
Des Plaines
For immediate release
June 19, 2009
The City of Des Plaines will soon be the home of two newly
reconstructed "green" alleys, as environmentally friendly permeable
concrete is used to pave the Campbell Avenue/Algonquin Road and the
Thacker Street/Oakwood Court alleys.
 Recognizing the positive impact new "green"
construction materials have on the environment and, primarily, water
absorption, the Des Plaines Engineering Department added an
alternative alley construction component into its 2009 bids for
concrete and alley improvements.
The results are now apparent, as the Campbell Avenue/Algonquin
Road alley nears completion. The alley consists of a cross section
of permeable concrete pavement with plain concrete boarders which
allow storm water to be absorbed into the pavement and the
underlying soils, thereby reducing the quantity of storm sewers.
According to Director of Engineering Timothy P. Oakley, P.E.,
"This design also provides an environmental benefit by filtering
storm water and reducing the volume of runoff to the river."
"The alternate bid consisted of constructing ‘Green Alleys’ as a
pilot project for the two alley segments, rather than the
traditional full-width concrete pavement," Director of Engineering
Oakley said
The pavement, although a smooth, grey surface, gives the
appearance of being comprised of smaller particles of concrete. It
has a rougher, grainy type feel to it, and does not have the
appearance of solid concrete. Water quickly flows through the
material and is absorbed in the underlying soil.
The City’s contract for the Green Alleys was awarded to MQ
Construction, Elk Grove Village, Illinois. The funding for the
project was from the Motor Fuel Tax and Community Development Block
Grant funds.
"Green" alleys are starting to spring up in Des Plaines as the
City has launched a program to reconstruct two alleys with
environmentally friendly permeable concrete. (pictured above left to
right) Des Plaines Assistant Director of Engineering Jon Duddles,
6th Ward Alderman Mark Walsten, who heads up the City’s Deep Green
Organization, Mayor Martin J. Moylan and 2nd Ward Alderman John
Robinson, whose ward is the site of one of the two green alleys,
pose for a photograph in the Campbell Avenue alley which is
currently begin reconstructed.
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