Minnesota Power Begins $2.5 Million Little Falls Dam Repairs

LITTLE FALLS (WJON News) -- An over 100-year-old Central Minnesota landmark is getting some much-needed work done starting this week. Minnesota Power is replacing two out of five Tainter gates on the east spillway of the Little Falls Dam. Minnesota Power says the Tainter gates are over 100 years old and at the end of their lifespan.

PHOTO courtesy of Google.

The Project Is Fully Funded by Minnesota Power

The dam was built in 1888, and powerhouses were added in 1920 with no significant changes since. The around $2.5 million project will also have some minor concrete repairs, and a 120-foot section of the left abutment core wall will be raised about 18 inches to provide additional protection during extreme floods.

Get our free mobile app

PHOTO courtesy of Google.

Front Street Traffic to Be Affected During Construction

Residents could see traffic on Front Street reduced to a single lane periodically during the work. There is no cost to the public for the repair work, and the project is scheduled to be finished by mid-October.

READ MORE FROM AUTHOR PAUL HABSTRITT:

The Little Falls Dam Looks Totally Different July 2020 Compared to July 2021

Little Falls Arts & Crafts Show

The Little Falls Arts & Crafts show is one of the last big events of the summer. The show continues to draw people in from around the state and crafters from across the country. Check out these photos from its 51st year.