Pennsylvania American Water Friday announced the completion of the approximately $18 million rehabilitation of its Thorn Run and Lake Oneida Dams in Oakland Township, Butler County.

The construction over the past 36 months included upgrades to improve the dam's spillway capacity in accordance with Department of Environmental Protection requirements for dam safety.

“These dam safety improvements represent some of our largest capital investments in Pennsylvania during the past three years,” said Pennsylvania American Water Senior Project Engineer Anthony Nokovich. “These projects ensure the availability of these important sources of water supply and the safety of our customers downstream.”

Lake Oneida and Thorn Run Reservoirs serve as primary source of supply for Pennsylvania American Water’s Butler District. Water from the reservoirs is treated and pumped to approximately 18,000 customers in the City of Butler and 12 other surrounding municipalities.

The Lake Oneida Reservoir was constructed in 1918 and is located on the headwaters of Connoquenessing Creek. The rehabilitation project included rebuilding the 95-year-old dam’s principal spillway; installing rolled compacted concrete armoring; and constructing drainage features to safely collect and convey seepage from the dam. The rehabilitation of the 110-year-old Thorn Run dam included similar upgrades.

For more information, visit the Pennsylvania American Water website.

11/11/2013