Lincoln Avenue Detention Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Downingtown Borough, Pennsylvania, the Lincoln Avenue Detention Basin serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the TR East Branch Brandywine Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 2007, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans a length of 875 feet, with a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. The basin covers a surface area of 4 acres and has a drainage area of 0.27 square miles, providing essential protection against potential inundation in the region.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the Lincoln Avenue Detention Basin is subject to regular state inspections, ensuring its structural integrity and functionality. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, this detention basin plays a vital role in safeguarding the surrounding community from the impacts of flooding. As part of its flood risk reduction purpose, the basin has been modified in 2010 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities, further enhancing its effectiveness in managing stormwater runoff during extreme weather events.

Supported by local government ownership and regulatory oversight, the Lincoln Avenue Detention Basin exemplifies a proactive approach to water resource management and climate resilience in Chester County, Pennsylvania. With its strategic location and critical role in flood risk mitigation, this infrastructure serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in safeguarding communities against the impacts of a changing climate.

Years Modified

2010 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

2007

Dam Length

875

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR EAST BR BRANDYWINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.27

Nid Storage

40

Hazard Potential

High

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.