New upgrade to Lake Purdy Dam will enhance water safety

Historic Lake Purdy Dam, which has provided water resources to Birmingham for over a century, is getting an upgrade.

Last month, the Birmingham Water Works (BWW) announced they have begun work on the century old dam.

The Lake Purdy Dam Improvement Project will focus on stabilizing and strengthening the dam’s foundation, addressing leaks, and enhancing its capacity to handle increased water flow, especially during extreme weather conditions.

“We are committed to ensuring the safety and efficiency of Lake Purdy Dam. These improvements are part of our ongoing efforts to invest in infrastructure that benefits our community, ensuring that we continue to provide safe, clean water in the most reliable and responsible way.”

Darryl Jones, General Manager, Birmingham Water Works

Lake Purdy Dam upgrades

The upgrades will include:

• Strengthening the dam to withstand various pressures and weather extremes
• Sealing cracks in the foundation to eliminate leaks
• Increasing the spillway capacity to manage higher volumes of water more efficiently
• Repairing the valve house and replacing old valves to ensure safe and reliable water control

The construction project is expected to last until March 2028. 

Birmingham residents depend on Lake Purdy

The Birmingham Water Works, which serves nearly 770,000 people in Jefferson, Shelby, Blount, St. Clair and Walker counties, will work closely with local and federal agencies to ensure the upgrades meet all required safety standards and regulations.

According to the Birmingham Water Works, about 50% of its customers depend on the water that flows from the Lake Purdy Dam.

The improvements were made possible by an Environmental Protection Agency Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan to the Birmingham Water Works.

On Tuesday, Oct. 8, BWW held a community informational meeting about the project.

For all the news around Birmingham, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and sign up for our FREE newsletter.