Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) - Are the days numbered for Rochester’s Silver Lake dam?

The city’s Parks Department is working on a plan that calls for the removal of the dam and a number of amenities to the NE park.

Park & Forestry Division Head Mike Nigbur says an open house is scheduled later this month to present the concept and take questions.

Nigbur says should the dam be removed, a series of drop basins or rock clusters would be added to the lake to maintain a level comparable to its current depth. Nigbur says the dam is no longer needed and is costly to maintain. Its last overhaul was in 2015 and cost about $900,000.

Nigbur says the plan also calls for a pedestrian bridge next to the North Broadway bridge that would connect to a new north shore trail. Nigbur says if approved, work on the project would not begin until after the lake is dredged, which may happen next year.

The open house is scheduled March 27 at Silver Lake Station (702 Silver Lake Dr NE from 4:00 - 7:00 PM.

Nigbur says staff “will utilize the ideas and feedback gathered during the Open House and other forums to refine a proposal. Additional engagement opportunities will be provided. The proposal will then be presented to the City Council for consideration.”

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