Repairs Underway at Lake Manatee Dam

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Manatee County has allocated $3 million for urgent repairs to the Lake Manatee Dam, following insights from last year’s hurricane season.

The evaluation highlighted critical vulnerabilities, revealing that after substantial rainfall necessitated water releases, flooding occurred, prompting immediate assessments.

“Thanks to the extensive hurricane season last year, we recommended a ground-penetrating radar assessment of the dam face,” said Patrick Shea, utilities director for Manatee County. “The assessment pinpointed areas where potential voids exist within the dam structure.”

Dozens of voids, or gaps within the dam, were identified during this thorough assessment. Shea explained, “Voids form as water seeps through cracks, gradually washing away cemented soil. Over time, factors like wave action and general degradation result in these gaps.”

Considering the dam is over six decades old, Shea emphasized the urgency of the repairs. “These voids have developed gradually over years of wear and tear.”

The $3 million funding will facilitate repairs specifically to the dam’s side that is exposed to the water.

“We’ll inject a two-part epoxy into the identified voids as a preventative measure to avert any future emergencies,” he stated.

With officials aiming for swift action, the restoration is projected to wrap up within 30 days. The Lake Manatee Dam is subject to an annual professional engineer’s report assessing its overall condition.