Airport Road Detention Basin Retrofit

City of Elgin

OBJECTIVE

The Airport Road Detention Basin Retrofit addressed a critical need for improved water quality and enhanced environmental stewardship in the City of Elgin. Historically, stormwater runoff entering the basin carried pollutants. This runoff flowed through the detention basin via a concrete-lined swale that offered no filtration or water quality benefits, ultimately  discharging into the Fox River. Recognizing the opportunity to improve water quality and reduce maintenance costs, the City of Elgin initiated a transformative project to naturalize the detention basin.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Naturalized stormwater facilities offer long-term environmental and functional benefits. By slowing water flow, native vegetation allows sediments and pollutants to settle, while absorbing excess nitrogen and phosphorus to improve water quality. Deep-rooted plants stabilize soil, recharge groundwater, and create habitats for wildlife, including pollinators. Once established, these systems require minimal maintenance, offering a sustainable, cost-effective solution.

As part of the City of Elgin's commitment to green infrastructure under its MS4 permit, Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) led the design and construction of the Airport Road detention basin retrofit. Located in the north-central portion of Elgin, this project enhances water quality in the Fox River Watershed while addressing stormwater management goals.

HLR’s comprehensive services included topographic surveys, custom planting plans tailored to the basin’s unique hydrology and sunlight conditions, and environmental compliance coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (EcoCAT), Kane County Stormwater Management, and the IEPA. Plans and specifications covered demolition, grading, soil erosion and sediment control, and landscaping. Contract documents and assistance in contractor selection ensured seamless execution. The project was completed in late summer 2024, requiring only two weeks of active onsite work, followed by ongoing plant monitoring throughout the fall growing season.

During the 2024 growing season, native plant communities thrived, water levels supported the desired ecosystem, and stakeholders provided overwhelmingly positive feedback. The basin’s naturalized design improved water quality, enhanced biodiversity, and delivered a visually appealing landscape for neighboring stakeholders. HLR’s collaboration with the City of Elgin ensured a cost-effective and timely solution, with long-term maintenance of the vegetation to be supported under a separate contract as needed.

Awards: 

• 2025 APWA Fox Valley Branch Public Works Project of the Year Award