Construction to Begin on Silver Lake Sediment Removal and Dam Modification Project
October 12, 2026 - ROCHESTER, MINN. – The City of Rochester is preparing to begin the Silver Lake Sediment Removal and Dam Modification Project, marking the start of a transformational improvement to the lake, river system and surrounding parkland. Construction activities will begin ramping up in the coming days with equipment staging, a controlled drawdown of the lake and temporary trail closures for the safety of park users.
This multi-phase project will improve water quality, improve flood protection, enhance fish and wildlife habitat, reduce long-term maintenance needs, increase public safety and strengthen trail connectivity in and around Silver Lake Park.
Deputy Public Works Director Aaron Luckstein said, “This project marks an exciting new chapter for Silver Lake and the surrounding park system. The improvements we’re beginning today will enhance water quality, expand recreational opportunities, improve safety and flood protection and create a more connected and accessible experience for everyone who enjoys this area.”
Over the winter, work will focus on below-water tasks, including sediment dredging and transitioning from the current low-head dam to a new rock arch rapids with wave pools. Because winter conditions bring lower river flows, this phase of work can be completed efficiently with less disruption. The temporarily lowered water levels are only needed to allow this work to occur. Once all below-water work is complete the lake will return to lake conditions.
The following construction activities and associated impacts are expected to begin later this week and remain in place over the coming months:
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Mobilizing the site by bringing in equipment and setting up safety and access measures to support construction work.
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Beginning the drawdown of Silver Lake on Monday, October 19, to reach the low channel flow where it will remain through the winter. The gradual drawdown allows sediment to remain in the lakebed so it can be removed during dredging, rather than being carried downstream.
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Constructing and maintaining temporary channels through the lake that will allow the construction of the new rock arch rapids with wave pools and removal of sediment.
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Hauling sediment removed from the lake, resulting in increased truck traffic along 7th Street NE, 13th/14th Street NW and West Silver Lake Drive.
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Transitioning from the current low-head dam to a new rock arch rapids with wave pools structure.
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Closing of sidewalk and trails that are impacted by truck hauling routes. Closures will be signed and caution should be used in these areas.
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The City will also be replacing an aging and undersized sanitary sewer line while the lake is lowered. The trail pedestrian bridge near 7th Street NE and associated trail under the bridge will eventually close when the sanitary sewer project begins later this fall.
The City advises the public to stay out of exposed lakebed and active construction zones, as muddy conditions and ongoing construction activities may create unexpected hazards.
Next spring, construction will shift to above-water elements, including completing the new trail along the north shore to connect the existing trails to the west and east with a below the Broadway Bridge option. The project is expected to be complete by September 1, 2027.
The City will share updates as work progresses during this significant investment in Silver Lake’s future. Learn more about the Silver Lake Park Improvements online at: https://qr1.be/W7CYMA.
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