Grand Rapids West Side Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Grand Rapids West Side Dam, also known as the Sixth Street Dam, is a gravity dam located on the Grand River in Grand Rapids, Michigan.


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Summary

Built in 1917 for the primary purpose of recreation, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 23.5 feet. It spans 520 feet in length and has a maximum discharge capacity of 13,000 cubic feet per second. Despite not being regulated by the state, this dam has a high hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

The Grand Rapids West Side Dam serves as a popular spot for recreational activities, attracting visitors to its scenic location along the Grand River. While the dam itself does not have associated structures or locks, its historical significance and role in water management for the area make it a notable landmark in Kent County, Michigan. As a non-USACE (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) structure, the dam is maintained and operated by the local government, with no specific federal agency oversight or funding.

With its historical legacy dating back over a century, the Grand Rapids West Side Dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region. While its condition assessment remains "Not Rated" and its hazard potential is considered high, efforts to monitor and manage the dam's risk profile are crucial for ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and preserving the recreational opportunities that it provides. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding the role of structures like the Grand Rapids West Side Dam becomes increasingly important for sustainable water management practices in the future.

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Grand River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

23.5

Drainage Area

4883

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.