January 22, 2025 - Barton Dam construction work will begin in Ann Arbor in early March 2025. The dam is adjacent to Barton Pond, Barton Nature Area, Bird Hills Nature Area and trails to and along the Huron River.
Due to the construction project, public access within these areas will be restricted, including: North of the pedestrian bridge on the west side the railroad crossing; the right embankment including the canoe portage on Barton Pond; the spillway; and the left embankment. In addition, there will be no public on-site access to Barton Pond. The parking lot at Barton Nature Area will be available; however, the public is advised that the access drive, pathways and adjacent yard will be shared by construction operations and construction traffic. The pedestrian bridge over the Huron River and the city canoe launch downstream of the pedestrian bridge will be accessible. While there will be barricades and signage posted, the public using the Barton Nature Area is urged to remain cautious in the parking lot, pathway and other areas west of the Huron River. A map indicating restricted areas as well as areas that will be maintained for public access can be found on the city dams and hydros webpage. There is also potential for noise from equipment situated between the railroad tracks and the dam, as dewatering equipment must remain running 24 hours, seven days per week during key excavation work.
Visitors to this area are asked to comply with the safety restrictions, barricades and posted signage on site. The city is also taking this opportunity to issue a reminder that crossing railroad tracks beyond designated, posted access points is extremely hazardous and is against the law.
This work at Barton Dam is anticipated to be completed by June 2027 and will include stabilizing a berm on the downstream slope of the right embankment to address seepage and stability concerns. “These planned improvements are necessary to ensure the operational reliability of this key infrastructure component and are required for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) compliance," explained Ann Arbor Water Treatment Services Manager Molly Maciejewski. This project is included in the city's Capital Improvements Plan and will receive funding in the amount of $2 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (Resolution Enactment #R-24-280). Additional work will include improving site access and other dam maintenance as required by FERC.
Updates, as available, will be posted on the City of Ann Arbor Facebook page, NextDoor (for city residents) and on the city website.
The city thanks all for their patience during this construction project.
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View the map featured on this page (PDF)
