Frustrated Winnetka residents have finally heard an answer to their question "Why can't the Village
do something about the flooding?" After many meetings, discussions and debates, the first phase of the project has been awarded to the engineering firm, MWH Global.
The plan is for an 8-ft wide tunnel that would run east 7,900 feet under Willow Road from west Winnetka to Lake Michigan. It will alleviate flooding to approximiately 900 acres of sodden land and would be aided by an additional 22,000 feet of new storm sewers feeding into the new tunnel.
This has not been without controversy as many residents fear contamination of the lake by the inflow of flood waters. The Village has responded that these concerns will be addressed as the project moves forward. There will certainly be more Village meetings as the project takes shape.
The estimate cost of the entire job has been pegged at $34.5 million.
For more information, please see:
Winnetka Stormwater Master Plan Website
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