July 13, 2026
MCD has joined MetroParks of Butler County, the Monroe Area Community Improvement Corporation, and the City of Monroe in a new partnership to stabilize approximately 800 linear feet of eroding streambank along Dicks Creek in Monroe.
The erosion has threatened adjacent land, added sediment to the creek, harmed aquatic habitat, and made it difficult to safely build public infrastructure in the corridor. Stabilizing the streambank will improve water quality, reduce future erosion risk, and protect nearby property and natural resources — while also clearing the way for the City of Monroe to complete its segment of the Great Miami River Trail, closing one of the remaining trail gaps in Butler County.
As part of the agreement, MCD will contribute $225,000 to the project and donate approximately 33.6 acres of land to the City of Monroe. MetroParks of Butler County will contribute between $375,000 and $525,000 in ARPA funding originally awarded by the Butler County Commissioners, and the City of Monroe will contribute up to $72,500 for project administration and inspection. The Monroe Area Community Improvement Corporation will manage project funds and serve as the contracting entity.
"The health of our streams and the strength of our communities are deeply connected," said MaryLynn Lodor, MCD General Manager. "This project reflects what regional partnership can accomplish when organizations come together around a shared goal. By restoring Dicks Creek, we're helping protect water quality, reducing long-term erosion risks, and supporting a trail connection that will benefit residents and visitors for generations."
Once complete, the project will also help the City of Monroe move forward with repairs at Bicentennial Commons, allowing the space to reopen to the public.
Read the full release from MetroParks of Butler County: [link to PDF]
