Elk Grove bearing burden for overpass

Congratulations to all the Elk Grove Village taxpayers, who in the near future will be the recipient of a Busse Woods bicycle and pedestrian overpass at Higgins Road and Interstate 290, along with a bill for $949,735. This is an increase of $60,000 from two weeks ago.

It is very likely the cost to Elk Grove will reach $1 million, as the agreement states any additional funds will be appropriated if required to cover the local agency’s cost. The Cook County Forest Preserve District, city of Rolling Meadows, village of Roselle and the village of Schaumburg all support this project. However they declined to provide any financial assistance for the cost over and above what was provided by several grants.

Since Elk Grove Village is the lead agency, we are in the unfortunate position to assume this burden as the “sugar daddy.” This overpass will be built on forest preserve property and owned by them as they have complete jurisdiction in this matter. However Elk Grove Village will be responsible for all future repairs — and that is perpetual — along with all specified liability insurance premiums.

The entire region benefits from this project but only Elk Grove pays. Maybe we will get our reward in heaven.

Ed Hauser

Former village trustee

Elk Grove Village