Demolition of Rochester’s Silver Lake Dam for Modification Project Underway

Rochester, MN (RochesterNow)- Demolition of the Silver Lake Dam in northeast Rochester got underway this week. 

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The demolition is part of a nearly $19 million project that calls for swapping out the dam with cascading pool and rock arch rapids that officials say will maintain the lake's water level while allowing the river to flow normally, providing recreational opportunities and environmental benefits. 

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Demolition of Rochester's Silver Lake Dam For Modification Project Underway

The project began with a drawdown of the water level in Silver Lake. Members of the community are asked to not enter the lakebed due to unpredictable conditions and construction activities. 

City leaders say the lake level will remain low during the winter months to allow for crews to replace the dam, dredge the lake and replace a sewer line. The new structure is set to be completed by Spring.

Read More: Drawdown Of Silver Lake Underway for Dam Modification Project 

Alterations to the shoreline, modifications to the trail on the western and northern shores of the lake and the installation of piers to support a future pedestrian bridge are also part of the project. 

TJ Leverentz. TSM Rochester

The entire project is set to be completed by September 1 of next year.  

History of Silver Lake Dam

The dam was constructed during the Great Depression as part of a New Deal. Silver Lake was designed for recreational purposes and was operated by the Rochester Parks Department at that time. 

Read More: Rochester's Silver Lake Dam: A Look Back at its History 

In the 1950’s Rochester Public Utilities took over ownership and operation of the dam. 

Major flooding prompted two reconstruction projects for the dam and the implementation of a flood control system that still protects the city today.