Economic benefits of a clean Chicago River, says new study

(Above) The tour boat Star of Chicago on the Chicago River near Wolf Point last October. (Click on image to view larger version.)

12-May-13 – A clean Chicago River would have substantial economic benefits for private businesses, their employees, and tax collectors, according to a study commissioned by Friends of the Chicago River.

Disinfecting sewage before it gets to the river, investing in public parks and “green” infrastructure, and similar projects would generate income, tax revenue, and jobs, according to Cardno ENTRIX, an environmental consulting firm with offices worldwide, including Barrington, Illinois, northwest of Chicago.

Projects either existing or planned would account for $8 billion in business revenue, $244 million in tax revenue, and 52,400 construction jobs, finds the study, followed by more money and jobs from operating and maintaining the projects.

For every dollar invested, the Chicago River would return 70 cents as business revenue, tax revenue, or personal income.

“Investing in the Chicago River is good for the river and good for the region,” said Margaret Frisbie, executive director of Friends of the Chicago River, a non-profit organization, in a news release. Besides the economic benefits, Frisbie says investing in the health of the river improves the quality of life for people and wildlife.

Results of the study, Our Liquid Asset: The Economic Benefits of a Clean Chicago River, were released on May 9.