The water table in some areas of Brookfield is high. This topography lends itself to flooding of backyards and basements with a moderate-to-heavy rainfall in these areas. Gravel is somewhat permeable compared to asphalt.
If the village paves the alleys in these areas it will do two things: First, the level of the alley will be raised. This will cause rain water to be dispersed into surrounding yards causing increased flooding for homeowners. Second, there will be less area for rain water to be absorbed into the ground. This will cause flooding to be heightened and prolonged.
It is a village code that residents pump flood water from our basements into the alleys. With asphalted alleys, that would just be a ridiculous cycle of pumping and then water draining back into yards and basements. By paving alleys, in certain areas in Brookfield, you will increase flooding. This will cost residents time, money and loss of property. In addition, property values will decline for these dwellings.
Before implementing a potentially deleterious project, the village should consult an engineer familiar with the problems of living in an area with high water tables. It would be strategic to fully understand the ramifications of such a plan before proceeding.
I’m unclear what recourse residents would have if such a scenario played out. Please research this proposal so you will be well informed before casting your vote for paving alleys in high-risk areas of Brookfield.
Mary McKevett, Brookfield