The City of Rochester invites residents to attend information sessions about the proposed Silver Lake Dam Modification Project. These information sessions are an opportunity for the Rochester community to hear from the City team on the proposed project, where things are at in the process, understand phasing options and the next steps should the project be approved by the City Council. Attendees will also have the opportunity submit questions and/or provide feedback. 

Virtual Session

June 10 from Noon to 1:30 p.m.

Visit the project website for the information to join the Microsoft Teams Meeting

The main goals of this project are to reduce long-term operation and maintenance costs associated with the existing dam, improve safety and accessibility, provide environmental improvements such as improved aquatic life habitat, and enhance recreational opportunities. The City is reviewing funding options and construction phasing to complete the different portions of the project. 

The proposed project addresses four main needs at Silver Lake:

1. Dredging to remove accumulated sediment from Silver Lake and a portion of the South Fork Zumbro River
2. Modifying the existing low head dam to increase safety, allow for a trail under the bridge, improve aquatic habitat and create recreational opportunities. The proposed modification will preserve 85% of the Lake and continue to provide flood passage.
3. Creating a trail connection along the northern lake shore and under the bridge
4. Constructing a standalone pedestrian bridge for shared use

The Mayor and Common Council have been invited to attend and there may be a quorum of Council members present at the event, but no official business will be conducted.