Flooding Vs. Development

WMBD/WYZZ TV – CHILLICOTHE -- Despite floods, several cities are considering riverfront development plans. Environmentalists say we should take a second. Chillicothe, Pekin, and even Peoria's Build a Block riverfront plans are all near flood plains.

Environmentalists say development isn't the problem, but rather, how we develop. Cement does not soak up run off, and most of the water heads straight into the river causing bigger floods. One expert says we should have a buffer zone with native plants to soak up the water, and build further back.

Chillicothe's Mayor says if they go forward with their riverfront plans, they will either raise the ground, or put the buildings on stilts.