Naperville seeks residents' help to keep drains clear

The Naperville Public Works Department long has identified clogged storm drains as one of the major causes of roadway flooding in the city.

Similarly, stormwater runoff is one of the largest known causes of water pollution in the United States.

As a result, the city has implemented a volunteer program in which residents "adopt" a drain near their home or business and commit to keeping it free of debris to maintain a safe and clean environment.

The city spends about $1.1 million each year on storm drain maintenance, inspections and repairs on the roughly 56,000 storm drains throughout the city.

The program, open to all residents, allows participants to choose a drain out of the 14,000 eligible drains on an interactive map located on the city's website.

Adopt-a-Drain participants, in conjunction with the drainage improvement projects in place to make the city more flood resilient, can contribute to reduce local street flooding.

"We know Naperville residents are passionate about community involvement and care about their neighborhoods," Director of Public Works Dick Dublinski said. "This program is a great chance to get involved, help care for Naperville and positively impact the community. We're already looking forward to watching it grow."

Participants will be responsible for inspecting the drain and the area around it, removing leaves and other debris from both the grate and the surrounding area, and disposing of any leaves and debris in the appropriate waste receptacle before a predicted storm and an additional four times a year.

The first 100 participants to register to adopt a drain and become a "Drain Defender" will receive a free reflective vest, rake and gloves to perform cleaning duties.

For more information about the program, including an interactive map of available drains and information on how to apply for the program, visit www.naperville.il.us/adoptadrain.