Work begins on new dam

UPDATE: Work begins on new dam

Here’s what to expect in the coming months

By: Cathy Vaughan

With the ice finally giving way to spring, work is beginning on the much-anticipated new Williams Lake Dam.

This work, funded by a Provincial investment of almost $5 million and led by Build Nova Scotia, will support the safety of those living around and downstream from the lake while supporting the lake’s ecosystem.

Pre-construction water and property assessments were carried out in March followed by bird and turtle surveys to determine which species live and breed in the area and ensure they are protected. This work helped locate nesting sites and feeding areas to ensure they won’t be impacted.

Dexter Construction will erect fencing in late April to delineate the work site. Pending formal approval from the Halifax Regional Municipality, both the parking lot and the trail to the dam are expected to be closed during construction to ensure the safety of both the public and workers on site.

Once the fencing is in place, the first major work is to build a coffer dam to remove water from the construction site and create a dry, safe area that will enable the construction of the new dam.

As per industry standard, the contractor will have a Water Control Plan in place to control the lake’s water level to allow for construction of the new dam, which is expected to begin in June.

Due to limitations on when the contractor is allowed to work in the water, work will also need to be carried out on weekends.

The anticipated completion date of construction is spring 2027, at which point restoration of the site will begin.