Elgin crews trying to protect Bandits' softball field from flooding

The Chicago Bandits have yet to play extra innings this year.

But Elgin city crews were putting in extra time Friday to erect a temporary berm combined with sandbags to keep the professional women's softball team's field safe from the rising Fox River.

Water had crept near a picnic area and was less than 35 feet from the fence along the third base side at the Judson University field where they play.

As of Friday morning, city crews had trucked in 220 tons of crushed limestone and compacted it to create a 12-inch-tall barrier to protect the field.

They also stacked sandbags for another layer of protection.

"We're expecting the river to continue to rise," said Jim Bell, Elgin's superintendent of parks.

Bell said authorities previously thought the river would crest sometime today. Now, that's not expected until next week, perhaps Wednesday.

Work on the berm began at about 1 p.m. Thursday and wrapped up Friday afternoon.

Bandits owner Bill Conroy said he was pleased with the city's quick response.

"I certainly think they're being very proactive in terms of protecting their investment and playing field," Conroy said. "They're looking out for the players and the fans."

In May, the city paid $711,000 for stadium renovations and improvements, such as bleachers for 2,000, a press box and dugouts at the field.

The team, part of the National Pro Fastpitch League, will play at Judson for at least three years.

The Bandits were set to begin a four-game series against the Canadian National Team Friday night.

"Last weekend, we had the battle with the weather with tornado watches and rain delays," said Tory Gum, Judson's vice president. "I thought this weekend we'd get a break."