Cicero launches free sewer valve program for homeowners to help prevent basement flooding
Program funded through part of $96 million town received in connection to record rainfall in 2023
CICERO, Ill. (WLS) -- Homeowners in suburban Cicero are beginning to receive free sewer system upgrades through a federally funded flood prevention program aimed at reducing basement flooding.
Thomas Huerta became the first homeowner in Cicero to receive a check valve installation under the new initiative. The valve is designed to filter water in and out of a home's sewer system and help prevent water from backing up into basements during heavy rainstorms.
"The anxiety of rainstorms dampening my basement and bringing up the water from this drain down here it's gonna be really nice not to deal with that," Huerta said.
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch
The program is funded through part of the $96 million Cicero received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in connection with devastating flooding that affected the community in 2023.
Officials said the check valves typically cost thousands of dollars to install, but the new program will provide them at no cost to 3,000 qualified Cicero homeowners.
"We have six years to spend the money, but I don't think it's gonna take six years to spend. Our goal is to do probably 1000 per year that would be comfortable for us," said Tom Tomschin, executive director for Cicero.
Angel Fernandez of Fernandez Sewer explained how the valves work.
"In the sewer line it closes shut so any back water from the town coming in it automatically closes it allowing no water to come in," Fernandez said.
SEE ALSO | Indiana residents can apply for FEMA assistance following storm damage, power outages
Cicero officials said about 80 percent of applicants are expected to be approved based on specific qualifications, including income and homeownership requirements, among other criteria.
Officials said the work typically costs about $5,000 or more, a price that has delayed many homeowners from installing the equipment on their own.
Huerta said his basement has flooded three times this year, making the upgrade a significant relief.
"Very grateful it's good to use this basement hopefully for something," he said.
Officials said they have already received 1,000 applications and are reviewing them. Those who do not qualify for the free valve installation program will be eligible to apply for another program that provides homeowners with up to $2,000 toward flood prevention improvements.
