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09/21/2021 01:27 PMThe dam repair project at Lake Quonnipaug is still facing some funding uncertainty and town officials remain concerned about the stability of the dam, especially in light of recent weather. However, now that the process has begun to inch forward, they are confident the progress will pick up the pace of the renovation.
Some recent minor repairs, including culvert upgrades and shoring of the dam with material, have taken place, according to Town Engineer Janice Plaziak.
“There definitely has been some erosion and we have placed some material at the dam wall to prevent further erosion,” Plaziak said.
Plans for an upgrade have actually been studied since 2009, according to published reports. First Selectman Matt Hoey said the town has been aware of the looming issue for some time and it is a problem that needs attention sooner rather than later.
Though both Hoey and Plaziak stated that the current situation is not critical, they emphasize that a failure of the dam would not only disrupt nearby residents, the damage to roads and property would be extensive.
“I wouldn’t say it’s currently a high-risk situation, and it wouldn’t be catastrophic if it failed, but it would certainly be disruptive and more expensive to fix.” Plaziak said.
Hoey said that working with the state can sometimes be frustrating, but he remains hopeful as the process moves along.
“We are currently working with the state on this. Obviously we know we need to address the issue. It is not critical now, but it will be at some point and soon. So the time is right to push this forward,” Hoey said.
The issues with the state present unique challenges for the town. The state Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) operates a boat launch at the north end of the lake and the town believes it is responsible for the rest of the waterbody. According to Plaziak, unknowns often arise when municipalities and the state government intersect.
However, the town must adhere to strict DEEP regulations and environmental laws that oversee any ecosystem such as Quonnipaug.
“Who is and isn’t responsible—and for what—is an aspect we are working on,” said Plaziak.
Plaziak said that the town is responsible for any repairs or work on the dam. Funding for $300,000 has been allocated in this year’s fiscal budget and a request for proposals has been sent out to engineers to bid for design and planning.