Posted on April 14, 2025
Tioga, Pa. — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Baltimore District, which oversees operations of the Cowanesque Lake Project, located in Tioga County, Pa. and lies on the Cowanesque River near Lawrenceville, Pa. is set to begin a construction project to enhance the spillway infrastructure at Cowanesque Dam. The spillway is a feature of the dam that was constructed in the late 1970s as an emergency overflow discharge for the lake, which runs approximately 1,200 linear feet. Since its construction, the spillway has never seen flow.
As part of this initiative, the South Tailrace Recreation Area will be temporarily closed to facilitate contractor access and staging for the project. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Park and Ride area will not be affected. Work is scheduled to begin on April 21, 2025, with the closure expected to last up to two years. This preventative maintenance project will ensure the continued safety and functionality of the spillway.
The dam will remain fully operational during the project and the project will not impact flood risk management operations or other recreation areas at the Cowanesque Lake Project.
We recognize that this temporary closure may impact local activities, including fishing and recreational use of the area. We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as we complete this critical work.
USACE remains committed to maintaining the integrity and reliability of Cowanesque Dam, which has prevented more than $526 million in flood damages for downstream communities, since its completion in 1980.
Updates regarding Baltimore District closures will be communicated via Tioga-Hammond and Cowanesque Lakes websites and Facebook page.
