Reconstruction work has begun on the Millbrook Dam in Ontario, Canada, with work including the construction of a new spillway and reconstructed earthen embankment.
Being developed by Otonabee Conservation, the project has been part funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario, each providing $1.1 million through the Building Canada Fund – Small Communities Fund. The work is required to help reduce the likelihood of flooding of the downtown residential and business core of the village of Millbrook.
“The Government of Canada recognizes that strategic investments in public infrastructure create safe, vibrant and sustainable communities,” said the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “Replacing the aged Millbrook Dam will help protect residents and businesses against flooding. The new dam will also serve as a community focal point.”
Over the next several months, the work will involve:
- Construction of temporary cofferdams and a flow diversion structure to maintain an open creek channel.
- Removal of the existing concrete, wood and sheet pile spillways as well as the U-shaped weir and steel bridge.
- Construction of a new reinforced concrete U-shaped weir, spillway and stilling basin.
- Hardening of the earthen embankment portion of the dam.
- Installation of a public walkway.
- Landscaping of the area.
“The reconstruction of the Millbrook Dam will renew confidence in dam security and safety to the residents in the village of Millbrook,” commented Otonabee Conservation Vice-Chair, Sherry Senis. “The reconstructed dam will preserve Millbrook’s historical, cultural and social attributes and characteristics for the enjoyment of current and future generations.”
