Lexington Reservoir Dam

Gazing at this serene expanse of water, can you imagine the Lexington Reservoir Dam undergoing a major facelift? This isn’t just any dam. The Lexington Reservoir Dam, a vital part of Lexington’s water infrastructure, was once in dire need of repair. This roughly 600-foot-long earthen embankment, standing about 10 feet tall, held back a significant amount of water. But time and nature had taken their toll. The dam, deemed to be in “poor” condition, suffered from overgrown trees, exposed roots causing erosion, uncontrolled seepage, and a non-functional low-level outlet. The town of Lexington knew something had to be done. In a remarkable feat of engineering and planning, the Lexington Reservoir Dam underwent a major rehabilitation in the summer of 2018. Weston & Sampson, a firm with prior experience working with Lexington, spearheaded the project. The firm meticulously planned every detail, from initial inspections and evaluations to preparing emergency and maintenance plans. They conducted surveys, analyzed the hydrology and hydraulics, delineated wetlands, and performed geotechnical explorations. The rehabilitation itself was a multifaceted undertaking. The dam slopes were flattened and the crest raised to improve stability. A mineral filter was installed at the downstream toe to control seepage. The existing low-level outlet was fitted with a new manhole, making it operational once again. Existing wetlands were protected, and new wetlands were created. A pedestrian path was added to the dam’s crest. New trees were planted nearby, replacing those removed during the project. The project also included the removal of those troublesome trees and their roots. Remarkably, all this work was completed during a tight two-month window in July and August, coinciding with the nearby school’s summer break. This minimized disruption to the community. This wasn’t Weston & Sampson’s first rodeo with Lexington. They had previously rehabilitated another dam for the town a few years earlier. Their continued involvement demonstrates their commitment to Lexington’s water infrastructure. They continue to perform regular dam safety inspections for both dams, ensuring the long-term safety and functionality of the Lexington Reservoir Dam. So, the next time you visit the Lexington Reservoir Dam, take a moment to appreciate the work that went into its revitalization. This vital piece of infrastructure is not only functional but also a testament to the town’s commitment to its community and environment.