Construction has begun on the rehabilitation of the Old Forge and Sixth Lake Dams in the western Adirondacks, according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul. The $16.4 million project aims to improve water regulation and enhance the safety, reliability, and operational efficiency of both dams. These upgrades are intended to provide long-term benefits for local communities and ecosystems.
Governor Hochul stated, “This important project delivers on our commitment to maintaining critical infrastructure, and will help safeguard downstream communities from potential flooding while enhancing our natural resources. The generational investment that the State is making in both of these century-old dams that regulate the Fulton Chain of Lakes will ensure they can remain treasured resources for the Western Adirondacks well into the next century.”
The funding for this rehabilitation was included in the FY 2023-2024 State Budget, initially appropriated by Governor Hochul and state legislators. Work on both dams is scheduled to continue through 2027. Planned improvements include replacing spillways with new labyrinth designs to increase capacity, constructing new gate enclosure structures that retain existing architectural styles, replacing water control gates, reconstructing downstream concrete aprons, installing emergency standby generators, making embankment improvements, and other community enhancements.
Hudson River – Black River Regulating District Chair Mark Finkle said, “The Board is grateful to Governor Hochul and the Legislature for this much-needed investment, which will ensure that residents and visitors alike can continue to enjoy the Fulton Chain of Lakes safely and reliably for generations to come.”
Executive Director John Callaghan added, “We are excited to be advancing this work to bring these structures into full compliance with NYS Department of Environmental Conservation dam safety standards, while also incorporating access and recreation enhancements for residents in, and visitors to, Old Forge and Inlet. We thank Governor Hochul for her unwavering commitment to critical infrastructure in the Adirondacks for future generations.”
Efforts will be made during construction to minimize disruption for area residents. Temporary coffer dams at each site will allow half of each new spillway to be built annually without draining or lowering lake water levels during construction.
At Sixth Lake Dam, sequencing will prevent impacts on seasonal resident parking during summer activities. Improvements will also be made to a bulkhead and dock used by residents accessing seasonal camps.
At Old Forge Dam, elements from the Town of Webb’s Waterfront Revitalization Plan are being incorporated—including improved access, lighting, docking facilities—and new hand launch points for paddlers using part of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail between Old Forge and Fort Kent, Maine.
Upon completion of both projects, local residents are expected to benefit from more stable water levels as well as enhanced recreational assets tied directly to dam safety improvements.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said: “New York State’s stringent requirements help dams remain in good condition and are a vital part of protecting lives, property, and the environment at the local level. DEC applauds Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature for this $16.4 million investment in the western Adirondacks and looks forward to continuing to work with the HRBRRD to rehabilitate the Old Forge and Sixth Lake dams to enhance these important structures.”
Fulton Chain of Lakes Association President Mark Steigerwald commented: “The Fulton Chain of Lakes Association is glad to see the comprehensive reconstruction of the Old Forge and Sixth Lake Dams moving forward. The reliability of these structures is essential to the many benefits our members enjoy on these magnificent bodies of water year after year. We are grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul, the Regulating District, and the DEC for moving this project forward so that the Fulton Chain of Lakes can flourish for another century.”
Sixth and Seventh Lake Improvement Association President Ken Streb said: “We welcome this important investment which will ensure use and enjoyment of Sixth and Seventh Lakes for generations… while improving levels of safety and water regulation.” He noted appreciation that normal water levels would be maintained throughout construction.
Northern Forest Canoe Trail President Karrie Thomas stated: “The boat launch at Old Forge has been start… tracing historic travel routes through Fulton Chain… These waters have been important… We appreciate care… by Hudson River – Black River Regulating District… thoughtful planning…”
Town leaders echoed support; Town of Webb Supervisor Tom Greco highlighted waterfront improvement benefits while Town of Inlet Supervisor John Frey welcomed safety upgrades ensuring continued function over coming decades.