Abbott Drive Basin Retrofit

City of Elgin

OBJECTIVE

Complete a basin retrofit and stormwater quality improvements for the basin located at the end of Abbott Drive, along Tyler Creek in north-central Elgin. The project is located entirely within the floodway and floodplains of Tyler Creek.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

HLR was selected by the City of Elgin to design a detention basin retrofit along Tyler Creek as part of its annual detention basin program. The existing basin was not functioning as intended due to deteriorated infrastructure and erosional features.

HLR designed a two-stage detention system to improve stormwater storage, water quality, and hydraulic performance while enhancing riparian habitat. Improvements include removal and replacement of failed outlet structures, streambank regrading and stabilization, and construction of a primary basin with wet pools to promote pollutant settling and increased retention time. A secondary basin provides additional storage and treatment through floodplain reconnection and creation of a riparian wetland. The design also incorporates native seeding, wetland plantings, and woodland restoration.

The project utilized an updated XPSWMM model to evaluate system performance and support design decisions. HLR provided full engineering services, including design, permitting, and preparation of construction documents, and secured IEPA Green Infrastructure Grant funding for implementation.