New Albany, Indiana, January 14, 2026
Crews have started removing the Providence Mill Dam on Silver Creek to enhance public safety and restore natural water flow. This follows a legal settlement between New Albany and the Indiana DNR, marking a shift towards collaboration. The project aims to improve safety for recreational activities and promote local wildlife habitats.
New Albany, Indiana
Crews Initiate Removal of Providence Mill Dam to Enhance Safety
Crews have commenced the removal of the Providence Mill Dam on Silver Creek in New Albany, Indiana, following a legal settlement between the City of New Albany and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This action aims to enhance public safety and restore the natural flow of Silver Creek.
Background of the Dam Removal
The Providence Mill Dam, also known as the Glenwood Park Dam, has been a subject of contention for several years. In August 2024, the City of New Albany initiated emergency maintenance by placing rockfill at the base of the dam to mitigate dangerous hydraulic currents. However, this action was undertaken without the necessary permits, leading to legal challenges from the DNR. The DNR filed a lawsuit against the city, seeking to reverse the unpermitted modifications and advocating for the dam’s removal to protect public safety. In December 2025, the city and the DNR reached a comprehensive agreement, allowing for the dam’s removal and the restoration of Silver Creek’s natural state. The city agreed to remove the shot rock placed in 2024 and to apply for a permit to construct a rock riffle structure, which is expected to improve waterway safety and create a more natural environment suitable for recreational activities such as swimming, wading, kayaking, and fishing. The DNR acknowledged that the city’s emergency actions were taken with the intent to protect public safety, which they did. The removal of the dam is now proceeding under the DNR permit issued in 2021, marking a collaborative effort to enhance both safety and the natural environment along Silver Creek.
Legal and Community Responses
The legal dispute over the Providence Mill Dam has been marked by differing perspectives. The DNR and environmental advocates have emphasized the safety hazards posed by low-head dams, citing incidents like the drowning of 14-year-old Andre Edwards Jr. in May 2024. In response to this tragedy, the Floyd County Commissioners called on the City of New Albany to remove the dam, expressing concern over public safety and the potential for future incidents. Conversely, the City of New Albany, led by Mayor Jeff Gahan, has historically opposed the dam’s removal, citing ecological, recreational, and historical concerns. The city has advocated for modifications to the dam rather than its complete removal, emphasizing the importance of preserving the structure as a historical asset and its role in local recreation. The recent settlement between the city and the DNR represents a significant shift towards collaboration, aiming to balance public safety with the preservation of the community’s historical and recreational interests.
Implications for Silver Creek and the Community
The removal of the Providence Mill Dam is expected to have several positive outcomes for Silver Creek and the surrounding community. Restoring the creek’s natural flow will enhance water quality, support local wildlife habitats, and reduce the risk of dangerous currents associated with low-head dams. The introduction of a rock riffle structure is anticipated to create a safer and more attractive environment for recreational activities, potentially boosting local tourism and community engagement. This development reflects a broader trend of reevaluating the role of aging infrastructure in waterways and prioritizing environmental restoration and public safety.
Conclusion
The commencement of the Providence Mill Dam’s removal marks a pivotal moment in New Albany’s efforts to enhance public safety and environmental stewardship. The collaborative approach between the City of New Albany and the DNR underscores the importance of addressing community concerns while prioritizing the well-being of residents and the health of local ecosystems. As the project progresses, it is anticipated to serve as a model for similar initiatives aimed at balancing historical preservation with environmental and public safety considerations.
FAQ
What is the Providence Mill Dam?
The Providence Mill Dam, also known as the Glenwood Park Dam, is a low-head dam located on Silver Creek in New Albany, Indiana. It has been a subject of legal and community debate due to safety concerns and its impact on the local environment.
Why is the dam being removed?
The dam is being removed to enhance public safety and restore the natural flow of Silver Creek. Previous modifications to the dam were made without the necessary permits, leading to legal challenges and the decision to remove the structure entirely.
What is a low-head dam?
A low-head dam is a type of dam with a small height difference between the upstream and downstream sides. These dams can create dangerous hydraulic currents, posing risks to swimmers and boaters.
What is a rock riffle structure?
A rock riffle structure is a series of rocks placed in a river or creek to create a naturalized environment that slows water flow, reduces erosion, and provides habitats for aquatic life. It also enhances recreational opportunities like swimming, wading, kayaking, and fishing.
When did the legal settlement occur?
The legal settlement between the City of New Albany and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources was reached in December 2025, allowing for the removal of the Providence Mill Dam and the restoration of Silver Creek.
Key Features of the Providence Mill Dam Removal
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dam Name | Providence Mill Dam (also known as Glenwood Park Dam) |
| Location | Silver Creek, New Albany, Indiana |
| Reason for Removal | Enhance public safety and restore the natural flow of Silver Creek |
| Legal Settlement Date | December 2025 |
| Key Actions | Removal of shot rock placed in 2024, application for rock riffle structure permit |
| Expected Outcomes | Improved waterway safety, restored natural environment, enhanced recreational opportunities |
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