City approves quote for short-term dam fix

Design and permit approval process for long-term project could take more than a year.

By Scott Aust, Journal staff | Wednesday, May 21, 2008

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Emergency repairs to the Canyon Lake dam spillway are expected to be completed in the next few weeks, but the design and permit approval process for the spillway reconstruction or replacement project could take a year or more.

The Rapid City council approved on Monday the low quote of $43,964 from Corr Construction Services to fill sinkholes undercutting the spillway. Meanwhile, the city is currently interviewing two engineering firms interested in designing a permanent fix for the spillway project.

Robert Ellis, public works director, expects the permit approval process from various agencies such as FEMA, Game, Fish & Parks, the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources and even the state Historic Preservation office, could take a year or longer.

"This is going to be heavily scrutinized," Ellis said. "There are going to be a lot of agencies taking a look at this. We even have to do an archeological and cultural resources assessment. A lot of people don't understand that, but you don't just build dams overnight."

Once hired, the engineering firm will prepare an initial design and cost estimate and will also perform an extensive study to determine if the spillway's current position is optimal or should be relocated. Once that is finished, the goal will be to find the alternative upon which the city and the various state and federal agencies can agree.

"To do a thorough analysis, it's going to take some time," Ellis said. "Once everybody gives a final sign off, then we can actually begin construction."

Contact Scott Aust at 394-8415, or scott.aust@rapidcityjournal.com