ROCHELLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) plans to begin work on widening Illinois Route 251 in Rochelle in 2027, but first, officials are seeking solutions for water runoff management. At Monday night’s Rochelle City Council meeting, IDOT presented proposals to convert part of the former Hickory Grove Property into a water runoff area for the improved highway. Mike Kuehn, with IDOT, explained that while current runoff methods suffice, flood risks could increase during severe weather events. One option would be creating ponds, though concerns about their effectiveness were raised by the city council. A second option would involve keeping the area dry to avoid insect breeding. The state will maintain a small pond, but larger solutions would require an agreement with the city for maintenance. Rochelle City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh noted that the state has asked for drainage solutions, and Mayor John Bearrows expressed interest in grass alternatives. IDOT’s plans for the highway expansion include two lanes in each direction with a center turn lane from the Illinois 38 intersection to north of Flagg Road.
