West 17th Street Detention Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

West 17th Street Detention in Erie, Pennsylvania, is a vital flood risk reduction structure constructed in 2001 with an earth dam type and a height of 13 feet.


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Summary

Located in Millcreek Township, this detention facility serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along TR Lake Erie. With a storage capacity of 107 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.73 square miles, this significant structure plays a crucial role in managing stormwater and reducing the risk of flooding in the area.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, West 17th Street Detention is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities to ensure its proper functioning and safety. Despite being rated as in fair condition with a moderate risk assessment, this detention facility has a hazard potential classified as significant. Regular inspections are conducted to monitor its condition and address any maintenance or repair needs to mitigate the risk of failure and ensure its effectiveness in flood control.

With its strategic location and design features, West 17th Street Detention stands as a key infrastructure asset in the region's water resource management efforts. As climate change continues to bring about more intense and frequent storms, structures like this play a critical role in safeguarding communities, properties, and the environment from the impacts of flooding. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance and functioning of such detention facilities is essential in promoting resilience and sustainability in the face of changing weather patterns and hydrological conditions.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

2000

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR LAKE ERIE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.73

Nid Storage

107

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.