Record Rain Highlights, Exacerbates Fairgrounds Problems

First Responders’ Day at the Illinois State Fair proved prophetic. Record rain Aug. 13 resulted in first responders reacting to emergencies across the fairgrounds.

Although the torrent overwhelmed stormwater systems, existing leaking roofs, cracked walls and other infrastructure problems exacerbated the situation. According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA), the fairgrounds accumulated more than $180 million in deferred maintenance and upgrades. This includes needs to replace 20 roofs, grandstand repairs and electrical system upgrades.

On Ag Day, Gov. Bruce Rauner said the fairgrounds had been “allowed to go to ruin … we can’t kick the can down the road.”      

During the Aug. 13 storm, electricity was shut off to Happy Hollow where several campers and vehicles were parked, and “anywhere water was pooling,” IDOA spokesman Rebecca Clark said.

A few manhole covers were lost from Happy Hollow’s stormwater system, but Clark said she wasn’t aware of any wastewater issues occurring on the grounds. Wet vacuums were used to pump water out of livestock barns and to help with drainage, Clark added. Some livestock exhibitors reported water leaks around electric outlets in barns during the storm.

Clark noted the speed at which the record rain fell -– as much as 1.6 inches in 25 minutes and 5 inches in two hours.

According to the U.S. National Weather Service of Central Illinois, the official total in Springfield measured 5.59 inches. That set records for most rain on that date, most rain on any day in August -- and all-time record for any date.

Given the situation, “it is a blessing to have so many resources available,” Clark said.

Assistance came from sources ranging from the American Red Cross and the Department of Corrections to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency.

While some repairs and upgrades have been made, “there is more work to be done,” Clark said. “The longer we wait, the price tag grows and more projects are added to the list.”