Three Key Facts:
-
- The aging Raystown Lake spillway has received $20.6 million from Joe Biden’s clean energy plan to modernize and strengthen the flood control installation.
- Raystown Lake attracts 1.5 million recreational visitors each year.
- The spillway has already prevented $295 million in flood damages since its completion. The new upgrade will ensure continued protection for the surrounding community.
-
The Raystown Lake spillway, a key flood control structure built in 1973 as part of the Raystown Dam, is set to undergo a $20.6 million overhaul funded by Joe Biden’s clean energy plan. Critical to managing water flow and protecting downstream communities, the spillway also supports the local economy and recreation. Decades of wear and tear have made upgrades necessary to ensure safety and sustain its vital role in the region.
The repair project will better safeguard homes, preserve regional jobs, and ensure the lake remains a hub for outdoor recreation.
The Risks of Inaction
The spillway’s aging and deteriorating condition is a significant risk to the surrounding communities. As a critical flood control structure, the spillway prevents overflow during heavy rains, protecting thousands of residents and businesses in the Juniata River Valley. Without timely repairs, local risks include:
- Major Flooding: A compromised spillway increases the chance of uncontrolled water release, threatening homes, farmland, and local businesses downstream.
- Costly Emergency Repairs: Waiting for a failure could mean much higher costs for mitigation and reconstruction.
- Environmental Degradation: A spillway failure could result in habitat destruction, soil erosion, and long-lasting damage to water quality.
Since its construction half a century ago, Raystown Lake has saved communities over $295 million in flood damages, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
A Recreation and Economic Anchor
Raystown Lake welcomes 1.5 million visitors annually. The lake supports a diverse range of businesses and offers recreational opportunities that draw families, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the state.
Repairing the spillway ensures the region can sustain this vital economic engine. Benefits include:
- Support for Local Businesses: Marinas, campgrounds, restaurants, and equipment rental services depend on a steady flow of tourists.
- Employment Opportunities: The repair work itself will create jobs, contributing to economic growth.
- Sustained Recreational Access: Fishing tournaments, boating, hiking, and camping rely on a healthy and safe lake environment.
Broad Public Support for Infrastructure Investment
The Raystown Lake repair is part of a broader push under President Joe Biden’s clean energy and infrastructure plans, which are widely supported across Pennsylvania. A recent poll shows that 71% of voters support Biden’s plan.
Preserving Pennsylvania’s Future
Repairing the Raystown Lake spillway is about more than fixing a structure—it’s about protecting lives, supporting local economies, and preserving a resource that benefits millions. With federal funding making this critical project possible, Pennsylvania communities can look forward to a safer, more resilient future.
By acting now, we’re investing in both today’s needs and tomorrow’s opportunities, ensuring that Raystown Lake remains a cornerstone of regional safety and prosperity for decades to come.
