Waterbury Dam project secures $89M for flood control and structural repairs

The Senate Institutions meeting held on April 4, 2025, focused on significant infrastructure developments, particularly concerning the Waterbury Dam project. The meeting began with an overview of the dam's current status and the challenges it faces, particularly regarding its flood control capabilities.

The Waterbury Dam, a crucial flood control facility, has been under scrutiny due to structural deficiencies identified during recent inspections. The floodgates, which are essential for managing water levels, were found to be jammed due to concrete deterioration. This issue has led to a restriction on the reservoir's water storage capacity, limiting the gates' operation to 75% of their original design capacity.

The estimated cost to restore the dam's full functionality is approximately $89 million, with funding expected to come from both federal and state sources. Currently, the state is responsible for 7.1% of the costs. The project will involve replacing two smaller floodgates entirely and rehabilitating a larger gate installed in the 1950s. Additionally, the concrete piers supporting these gates will be demolished and rebuilt to address ongoing issues related to alkali-silica reaction, which has caused cracking and deterioration.

The meeting also highlighted the need for a new service bridge, as the existing structure has never met its original design strength and has required temporary supports for safe operation. Furthermore, erosion issues downstream of the dam have been identified, prompting plans for a concrete splash pad to stabilize the area.

To facilitate these repairs, a temporary drawdown of the reservoir will be necessary, estimated to lower water levels by 30 to 60 feet. This drawdown will impact recreational activities and hydropower production during the construction period.

Overall, the discussions underscored the importance of the Waterbury Dam project not only for flood control but also as a recreational and hydropower asset for the community. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue monitoring the project's progress and securing the necessary funding to ensure its successful completion.