
This project in Highland Park, IL focused on improving drainage throughout the rear and side yards by collecting surface runoff and roof water and directing it away from the home. The work included a new catch basin, more than 120 linear feet of underground PVC drainage, downspout connections, leaf strainers, controlled discharge points, and restoration of disturbed hardscape and lawn areas.
Project Goals
- Improve surface water drainage around the property.
- Collect runoff near the patio and rear yard.
- Connect affected downspouts to the underground drainage system.
- Direct water away from the home’s foundation.
- Improve long-term drainage performance.
- Restore walkways and landscape areas affected by installation.
- Catch Basin Installation
A 12-inch catch basin was installed near the patio area to collect surface runoff and integrate it into the property’s underground drainage network.
The catch basin provides a dedicated collection point for water accumulating around the patio and helps move runoff into the drainage system.
Underground PVC Drainage System
More than 120 linear feet of solid 4-inch PVC drainage piping was installed throughout the rear and side yards.
The underground system was designed to collect and convey water toward designated discharge locations, helping move runoff away from the home and reduce water accumulation.
Downspout Connections
Affected downspouts were connected into the new drainage network to improve roof runoff management.
Multiple drainage sources were integrated through a shared connection to create a coordinated system capable of efficiently moving collected water away from the property.
Leaf Strainer Installation
Leaf strainers were installed at designated downspouts to help reduce leaves and debris from entering the underground drainage system.
This helps improve system reliability and supports easier long-term maintenance.
Surface Discharge Points
Surface discharge points were installed using tee connections, gravel bases, and grate covers.
These assemblies provide controlled water release while maintaining convenient access for future inspection and maintenance.
Side Yard Drainage
Drainage piping was extended along the side yard to move water away from the home and toward appropriate discharge areas.
The system was routed with consideration for surrounding structures and property lines while creating a continuous drainage path through the property.
Hardscape and Landscape Restoration
Stepping stones were temporarily removed and reset as necessary to accommodate the underground drainage installation.
Sections of concrete were also cut where required for piping installation. Following construction, disturbed walkways and turf areas were repaired and restored to leave the property in a clean, finished condition.
Why Drainage Improvements Matter
Proper drainage helps protect foundations, patios, walkways, and surrounding landscapes from excessive water accumulation.
By combining catch basin collection, underground PVC piping, downspout connections, and controlled discharge points, this project creates a coordinated drainage network designed to improve water movement and reduce pooling throughout the property.
Project Highlights
- 12-inch catch basin installation.
- More than 120 linear feet of solid 4-inch PVC drainage piping.
- Rear yard drainage improvements.
- Side yard drainage installation.
- Multiple downspout connections.
- Shared drainage connections.
- Leaf strainer installation.
- Tee discharge assemblies.
- Gravel and grate-covered discharge points.
- Temporary removal and resetting of stepping stones.
- Concrete cutting for drainage installation.
- Walkway restoration.
- Turf repair and restoration.
- Improved roof and surface runoff management.
- Coordinated underground drainage network.
As you browse through the photos, you will see the catch basin installation, underground PVC drainage work, downspout connections, discharge assemblies, side-yard drainage improvements, and final restoration as the project came together.
The result is an improved drainage system in Highland Park, IL, designed to collect and manage roof and surface runoff while directing water away from the home and restoring the surrounding landscape and hardscape areas.

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Tommy Pollina Landscape Company – serving Chicagoland since 1982.
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