The Blue Earth County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday were presented with the comprehensive removal plan of the Rapidan Dam and restoration of the Blue Earth River channels, following a request for an analysis and cost estimate on August 27th, 2024. The report from Barr Engineering included high level preliminary estimates to complete those actions.
Barr presented findings from extensive investigations, including geotechnical studies, hydraulic modeling and environmental assessments. The project center on removing the damaged dam and replacing the adjacent bridge, with total estimated costs approaching $90 million.
The project faces multiple regulatory challenges, primarily from federal agencies such as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Despite the dam’s current nonoperational status, these agencies continue to require comprehensive reviews and approvals.
The project’s next steps include obtaining an environmental assessment worksheet, conducting a third party technical review and continuing negotiations with federal and state agencies. A public information meeting will be scheduled for later this summer. Demolition is scheduled to begin in mid-2017 and conclude by the end of 2028.
Comments