HCWP Intake Structure & Low Head Dam Rehabilitation

CIP No. 690511-100000

The City of Columbus, Department of Public Utilities, Division of Water (DOW), is initiating a project to modify and upgrade the Hap Cremean Water Plant (HCWP) raw water intake structure and adjoining low head impoundment dam. The intake structure and low head dam are located on Big Walnut Creek and supply raw water to HCWP for treatment and distribution to City of Columbus water customers and contract communities. The intake structure facility was originally constructed in the 1950’s and later expanded in the late 1960’s. Since this time only minor improvements have been made to the facility.

This project will include structural modifications to the intake structure to accommodate implementation of new mechanical screening equipment. Upgrades to the electrical, controls, and HVAC systems will be provided to support the new equipment. Improvements to the low head dam will include the replacement of temporary, wooden crest boards with a permanent concrete cap. Additionally, areas exhibiting deteriorated concrete will be rehabilitated. Site improvements will include stream bank stabilization to address erosion near the facility, dredging of Big Walnut Creek upstream of the low head dam, pavement replacement, and stormwater upgrades.

This project will bring the facility up to current standards and ensure a reliable source of raw water supply to HCWP for years to come. All improvements will be made within City of Columbus owned property and right-of-way and will not impact travel or pedestrian traffic along Cherry Bottom Road.

Work is scheduled to commence in the summer of 2021. The work is anticipated to be completed in spring of 2024.

The DOW plans to fund this project with a below market-rate loan through the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) Water Supply Revolving Loan Account WSRLA program. Prior to granting this loan, the OEPA required a detailed submittal from the Division of Water to determine the project’s eligibility for the program.

The Ohio EPA has completed a Limited Environmental Review (LER) for this project. View the LER(PDF, 745KB) and the letter of "Notice of Issuance of a Limited Environmental Review and Final Finding of No Significant Impact to All Interested Citizens, Organizations and Government Agencies." 

For questions, please call the DOW Technical Support Section Office at (614) 645-7100.