Located in West Frankfort, Illinois, the Old City Lake Dam is a vital water resource that serves a dual purpose of recreation and water supply.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1945, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and stretches for 850 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 1420 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Tilley Creek and is owned and regulated by the local government under the jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the Old City Lake Dam has undergone regular inspections, with the latest one conducted in June 2016. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition, although a detailed condition assessment is currently not available. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 86 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 1620 cubic feet per second in case of emergencies.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the strategic location and engineering behind the West Frankfort Old City Lake Dam. Serving as a key recreational spot while also providing essential water supply, this dam exemplifies the importance of maintaining and managing such critical infrastructure to ensure safety and sustainability for the surrounding community and environment.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TILLEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
197 |
Drainage Area |
3.8 |
Nid Storage |
2300 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |