Engineer will examine flooding issues in Buffalo Grove

Responding to concerns from residents, Buffalo Grove hired an engineering firm Monday to look into flooding issues in town.

Although most of the area escaped major problems after a storm in August, Beechwood and Weidner roads had rushing water, and many basements in that area flooded.

Residents on those streets brought up the issue at the last board meeting Sept. 10, and the village promised to look into some solutions.

The village is spending up to $27,500 to have Christopher B. Burke Engineering look into the problem. Many of the homes on those streets have garages below street level, which contributes to flooding.

However, residents said the flooded streets are also a safety issue. Ken Haugsness, a Weidner Road resident, said he'd like the village's cooperation in blocking off the street when similar conditions come up in the future.

The engineering firm will hold meetings with residents as part of its fact-finding.

"Hopefully this is a part toward finding a solution," Trustee Steve Trilling said. However, he also warned that the village may come to the conclusion that no solution can be found.

Beechwood resident Eleanor Hesse said she was glad that the village was acknowledging the problem after it's been hampering residents for many years.

"I hope they can find a real solution," she said.