Chicago River reopens for swimming after 100 years of air pollution closure

In 2025, metropolis well being authorities confirmed the river’s water high quality as protected for open-water swimming, a turning level for Chicago. Today, the river is dwelling to almost 70 species of fish, together with beavers and turtles.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson hailed the return of the historic swim as a landmark victory for each the town and the river itself: “This is not only a triumph for Chicago, but also for the Chicago River, which once served as an industrial backwater but now stands proudly as the city’s swimming pool.”

Chicago River Swim 2025 set to make historical past in September

The Chicago River Swim 2025 will see greater than 500 swimmers tackle a course of over one mile by way of the center of downtown Chicago, marking the river’s first official open-water swim in practically a century. The occasion, scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2025, will welcome each skilled and beginner athletes, although solely these with prior open-water expertise, corresponding to triathletes, skilled swimmers, or Olympians, are eligible. Recreational swimmers are excluded.

Strict security measures shall be in place, together with each day water-quality testing, on-site paramedics, and rescue groups. More than 100 security personnel, together with 40 lifeguards, will patrol the course utilizing kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, and motorboats. 

Every participant will put on a GPS tracker, whereas the US Coast Guard will shut the stretch of the river to different vessels throughout the race.

The course begins at Dearborn Street Bridge, heading east to State Street, looping again west to Lake Street, and ending close to Clark Street Bridge. Participants can select between 1-mile and 2-mile distances.

Spectators will collect alongside the Riverwalk between Lake and Clark Streets, which shall be reworked right into a energetic viewing space with meals, drinks, and VIP occasions.

More than a race

Organisers emphasise that the swim isn’t just a contest however a celebration of the river’s revival and the success of Chicago’s decades-long environmental restoration.

The occasion additionally serves as a fundraiser, with all proceeds supporting ALS analysis at Northwestern University, swimming classes for underprivileged youth, and initiatives to cut back racial disparities in entry to swimming.

US Olympic bronze medallist Natalie Hinds, who will be part of the race, mentioned: “I care deeply about water safety, expanding opportunities to learn to swim, and preventing drownings through education and community engagement.”

However, officers have confused that the race will solely proceed if each day water exams affirm protected micro organism ranges. If requirements are exceeded, the occasion may very well be postponed or cancelled for security causes.