WAUSAU PILOT AND REVIEW
WAUSAU — A planned project to repair Wausau’s hydroelectric power plant will impact some summer recreational activities in 2019, according to Wisconsin Public Service.
As part of this project, there will be up to a 14-foot drawdown of the reservoir north of the hydro plant mid-April through December to allow for work on the foundation of the gates.
The tailwater fishing parking area along First Avenue will be closed during construction and fishing on the immediate east and west sides of the hydroelectric facilities will not be permitted. The canoe and kayak portage route also has been temporarily moved to avoid the construction area, according to WPS officials.
The hydroelectric power plant, constructed in 1921, consists of seven large gates and generates 5.4 megawatts of electricity. Four of the seven gates were repaired between 2006 and 2009.
Planned construction will replace three original spillway gates, repair concrete piers and abutments, install a new gate heater for winter operation and upgrade the spillway electrical system. The repairs will reduce leakage, improve plant efficiency and reduce operation and maintenance costs, officials said.
Permitting and construction planning is underway. Construction is planned from May 1 through Dec. 31.
WPS will work with the Wausau police and fire departments, and Marathon County Emergency Management to manage the area for contractor and public safety.
