Otonabee Conservation marked the start of reconstruction of the Millbrook Dam today with a visit to the site in the company of provincial and municipal officials. Otonabee Conservation Vice-Chair, Sherry Senis, joined by Member of Provincial Parliament for Peterborough, Jeff Leal, Peterborough County Warden Joe Taylor and the Mayor of the Township of Cavan Monaghan, Scott McFadden, reviewed the work currently being undertaken.
“This infrastructure project will include the construction of a new spillway and reconstructed earthen embankment. Once completed, the strengthened dam will help reduce the likelihood of flooding of the downtown residential and business core of the village of Millbrook,” explained Senis.
The Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario have provided Otonabee Conservation with $1.1 million each through the Building Canada Fund – Small Communities Fund. Otonabee Conservation will be responsible for all remaining costs of the approved project budget, with the Township of Cavan Monaghan contributing the majority share.
“The Government of Canada recognizes that strategic investments in public infrastructure create safe, vibrant and sustainable communities,” said the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “Replacing the aged Millbrook Dam will help protect residents and businesses against flooding. The new dam will also serve as a community focal point.”
“I am so pleased that thanks to the over $2.2 million in joint funding from our government and federal partners, that Otonabee Conservation will now be starting reconstruction of the Millbrook Dam. This investment will ensure that the historical characteristics of the dam remain intact while increasing flood protection for residents and businesses in the Millbrook community,” stated Jeff Leal, Member of Provincial Parliament for Peterborough.
Dan Marinigh, Chief Administrative Officer for Otonabee Conservation, outlined the work being done by Facca Incorporated, the company contracted to undertake the construction. Over the next several months, the work will involve:
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- – the construction of temporary coffer dams and a flow diversion structure to maintain an open creek channel;
- – the removal of the existing concrete, wood and sheet pile spillways as well as the U-shaped weir and steel bridge;
- – construction of a new reinforced concrete U-shaped weir, spillway and stilling basin;
- – hardening of the earthen embankment portion of the dam;
- – the installation of a public walkway; and,
- – landscaping of the area.
Donning hard hats and safety vests, guests attending the launch event took time to view the construction site. Guests included MP Jamie Schmale, MPP Laurie Scott, Members of Cavan Monaghan Council and staff, Otonabee Conservation staff and members of the public.
“The reconstruction of the Millbrook Dam will renew confidence in dam security and safety to the residents in the village of Millbrook. The reconstructed dam will preserve Millbrook’s historical, cultural and social attributes and characteristics for the enjoyment of current and future generations,” stated Senis.