Cicero launches $96 million flood prevention program for homeowners

The town of Cicero has launched a federally funded flood prevention program to help homeowners mitigate basement flooding. The initiative is part of a $96 million fund provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development following record rainfall and devastating flooding in 2023.

Thomas Huerta has become the first resident to receive a check valve installation under the program. These valves allow wastewater to exit the home to the sewer system while using a flap to prevent storm water from backing up into the basement during overflows. While such installations typically cost thousands of dollars, the program provides them at no cost to qualified residents, including one year of maintenance.

Cicero officials aim to install these valves for approximately 1,000 homeowners per year, with a total goal of reaching 3,000 qualified residents. Beyond individual home upgrades, additional grant funds are designated for stormwater infrastructure improvements, sewer repairs, and permeable alleys to provide long-term flood resilience.