After nearly six decades, Decker Dam at Lake Walter E. Long is getting an upgrade.
Austin Energy will replace the gates and anchors for the dam. The city’s electric utility uses the water in Decker Lake as part of its operations at the nearby Decker Power Plant. Austin Energy expects the project to last from spring 2025 into 2027.
The dam and gates that shape Lake Walter E. Long were designed and installed in 1967.
“Decker Dam has helped create a beloved natural space for decades and our focus is on making sure that it does so for generations to come,” said Lisa Martin, Chief Operations Officer for Austin Energy.
To prepare for this project, the lake level will gradually be lowered through natural evaporation to 550 feet. The lake will be kept at that level until work on the dam allows the gates to support a higher lake level, and weather conditions allow that level to increase.
As lake levels proceed below 554 feet, the park’s boat ramps will close until work is completed.
