A Board of Determination that was formed to decide whether a drain project is needed to reduce flooding in Bridgman has concluded the work is necessary.
Berrien County Drain Commissioner Christopher Quattrin tells us an area bounded by Lake, Pearl, Church, and Clark Streets is prone to flooding when it rains. That’s because the nearby Williams and Essig Drain, built in 1910, is no longer adequate to serve the area.
Quattrin says the Board of Determination on November 21 heard from about ten residents who shared their flooding stories.
“Talking afterwards, after they met, they said it’s pretty apparent that something needs to happen,” Quattrin said. “So, now it turns back to the drain commissioner, and we’re going to fast track this process the week of the 12th. We’re going to have our value analysis workshop to start developing the scope of the repair, maintenance, expansion, and redesign of that drainage system there.”
Quattrin says no new drainage district will be needed. He believes the current drain needs to be expanded, sending the water collected into Tanner Creek, which winds through Bridgman and empties into Lake Michigan.
Quattrin says he’s aiming to fast track the improvements so work can be done in 2025.
