Ep 132 - Swimming in the Sub-Basement: The Great Chicago Flood of 1992
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On April 13, 1992, the bustling city of Chicago faced an unexpected calamity that would go down in history as the Great Chicago Flood. This disaster, which cost the city between $2 billion and $4 billion, was not caused by a natural event but by a hidden network of tunnels forgotten by time.
The story begins in the late 19th century when the Chicago Tunnel Company was commissioned to build a series of underground tunnels for the Illinois Telephone and Telegraph Company. These tunnels, initially designed to house cables, evolved into a narrow-gauge railway system used to transport coal and other goods. By 1914, 60 miles of these tunnels crisscrossed beneath the city, connecting various buildings and facilities. However, by the mid-20th century, the tunnels were abandoned and largely forgotten.
Fast forward to 1992, the Kinzie Street Bridge required new pilings. The construction inadvertently displaced earth, creating a car-sized hole in one of the old tunnels. Over time, water from the Chicago River began to seep through this breach. Despite early warnings from a telecommunications worker who discovered the leak, the issue was neglected due to confusion over jurisdiction and responsibility.
On that fateful Monday morning, basements in Chicago’s downtown Loop area began to flood. The flooding was so extensive that the city cut power to prevent electrocutions, forcing businesses to shut down. The Army Corps of Engineers, present in the city, was initially baffled by the flooding as it wasn’t raining. It wasn’t until a radio reporter learned about fish in the basement of the Merchandise Mart that the source of the flood was identified—a massive breach in the forgotten tunnel system.
Efforts to plug the hole were frantic and improvised. Rocks, mattresses, and quick-setting cement were used to stem the flow of water. The city even partially drained the river to reduce pressure on the tunnels. Eventually, the breach was contained, but the damage was done. Basements were submerged, stock exchanges halted, and the city’s infrastructure was severely compromised.
The Great Chicago Flood serves as a stark reminder of the hidden vulnerabilities in urban infrastructure. It highlights the importance of maintenance and the potential consequences of neglect. This disaster, while catastrophic, also showcased human ingenuity and resilience in the face of unexpected challenges.
For a more detailed dive into this fascinating piece of history, listen to our latest podcast episode. Discover the intricate details, hear firsthand accounts, and learn about the long-term impact of the Great Chicago Flood of 1992. Don’t miss out on this captivating story of urban disaster and recovery.
