Keepit upgrade takes shape
More than 15,000 cubic metres of material has been removed to date as construction on the Keepit Dam flood security upgrade advances.
The material has been removed for construction of an abutment next to the existing spillway to provide additional support and enhance the dam’s ability to withstand an extreme flood.
State Water Keepit Dam upgrade site coordinator Russell Sainsbury said the excavation process had commenced, with blasting occurring last week.
“Through the regular Community Construction Liaison Group meetings we have kept each of the stakeholders affected by the upgrade informed about any works which may affect them,” Mr Sainsbury said.
“Such works include the blasting schedule, which commenced on Monday, 17 May and requires careful management of air traffic, dust and noise control.”
State Water is liaising with the Gunnedah Shire Council and construction contractor John Holland to determine the most appropriate traffic management plan for the site.
“Contractor traffic has been limited to 60km per hour along Keepit Dam Road in the interests of safety, and further speed restrictions may be implemented for the duration of the project.”
Preliminary construction sites for the saddle dams have been established in the State Park area, with access to the boat ramp reinstated and parking area set for completion at the end of May.
Construction on the first two saddle dams is almost complete, site preparations for caravan relocation and the installation of 100 fauna boxes have also commenced.
“Construction on the temporary cofferdam is also 35 percent complete and 100 fauna boxes have been installed in trees to mitigate impacts from habitat removal on birds, possums and other flying animals.”
Keepit Dam is one of seven dams State Water is upgrading throughout regional NSW, with a total investment of more than $260 million.
The $146.4 million project will potentially employ up to 200 full time staff and generate $115million in gross regional product and $54 million in household income.
The project involves raising the main and subsidiary dam walls, constructing three saddle dams and two spillways to enable the dam to withstand extreme floods and earthquakes.
Construction is expected to take three years, with an expected completion date of 2013.
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