City plans $56M modernization of Overholzer Dam to enhance flood safety

The Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust meeting on March 11, 2025, spotlighted critical infrastructure upgrades for the Overholser Dam, emphasizing the urgent need for modernization to meet current safety standards. The dam, originally constructed in the early 1920s, has been flagged for significant deficiencies, including a concrete spillway that fails to meet stability criteria and non-operational floodgates suffering from corrosion and extensive wear.

During the meeting, officials outlined a comprehensive rehabilitation plan aimed at enhancing the dam's structural integrity and compliance with federal and state guidelines. Key components of the project include the permanent removal of outdated floodgates, which will be replaced with innovative labyrinth spillways designed to improve water flow efficiency while minimizing maintenance needs. This modernization effort is not just about replacing old components; it’s a proactive step to ensure the dam can withstand potential flood events.

The estimated cost for these upgrades is approximately $56.5 million, with funding anticipated through a competitive FEMA grant program. The city is currently in the application process, aiming to secure a federal-local match that would significantly offset costs. The deadline for this grant application is set for April 18, 2025.

As discussions progressed, the importance of maintaining infrastructure to prevent future failures was underscored, with officials noting that previous stability issues had already been addressed in earlier projects. The proposed enhancements are expected to bolster the dam's resilience, ensuring it continues to serve the community safely for years to come.

The meeting concluded with a call for questions from trustees, signaling ongoing engagement and transparency in the project’s development. The anticipated upgrades to the Overholser Dam represent a crucial investment in Oklahoma City's infrastructure, aiming to safeguard both the environment and the community.