Chicago River Welcomes Swimmers After Remarkable Revival

Quick Smiles:

• Chicago River is now swimmable for the first time in over a century.
• Wildlife has returned, increasing from 5 to 77 fish species.
• Civic investments and community efforts transformed the waterway.

Once avoided and considered an eyesore, the Chicago River is celebrating a stunning transformation back to a vibrant, clean waterway. Thanks to decades of dedication, new ecological habitats, and major civic improvements, the river will soon welcome swimmers again for the first time in more than a hundred years.

Non-profits like Urban Rivers and public initiatives such as the Wild Mile eco-park played crucial roles in bringing native wildlife and plants back to the river.

“Really, the river was the alley. It was gross. You didn’t look at it, even think about it. You sent that water away,” said Krystina Kurth, coordinator of conservation action at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium.

The Clean Water Act of 1972 put an end to unchecked dumping, which, combined with modern stormwater solutions and eco-parks, has restored the river’s health. The once-polluted river now supports a thriving underwater ecosystem and draws in locals for leisure and relaxation.

The river’s revival is sparking new life along its banks, with former industrial sites transforming into lively offices and music venues, illustrating the positive ripple effects of environmental stewardship.

Let this inspiring story remind us that communities working together can bring rivers and cities back to life, creating spaces where both nature and people can thrive.

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