Darien Seeks $600K For Flood-Ravaged Neighborhood

DARIEN, IL – Darien is seeking $600,000 to help a neighborhood that suffered some of the worst flooding over the summer.

The proposed flood mitigation project is for the 7600 to 7900 blocks of Gail and Linden avenues.

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According to the city, improvements may include inlets and drainage features, conveyance upgrades, connections to existing stormwater facilities, and potential construction of a water detention facility.

Gail and Linden are near the major intersection of Cass Avenue and Plainfield Road. Some blame DuPage County for building up the elevation of the two thoroughfares years ago.

Residents in the neighborhood have spoken up at meetings.

"What will you all do for us as your constituents? What will you do when you talk to DuPage County?" Gail Avenue resident Josh Kukec said in July. "We pay enough taxes that something more can be done."

The city plans to submit the application to the DuPage County Community Development Commission. The money ultimately comes from the federal Community Development Block Grant program.

A public hearing for the city's proposal is set for 7:30 p.m. Monday at City Hall. Written comments may be submitted to the city by email through 5 p.m. Monday.