THE OKLAHOMA RIVER LOW WATER DAMS

Triad’s involvement with the North Canadian River began in 1980 with the development of a planning document entitled the String of Pearls Master Plan, offering a unique integration of public and private partnerships for development of the 18-mile river corridor with trail systems, water features, and recreational areas. Updates to this master plan led to the creation of the Oklahoma City Riverfront Redevelopment Authority (OCRRA) to oversee the efforts to revitalize the river.

Future planning studies identified seven miles of the river passing through the downtown area of Oklahoma City for further development. Hydrologic and hydraulic studies followed for the development of three low-water dams to create a series of river lakes along this corridor. Under contract to Oklahoma City and OCRRA, Triad and its consultant, Boyle Engineering Corporation, prepared the plans and specifications for the construction of the first dam at Eastern Avenue.  The project then moved under the City’s MAPS Program and the two remaining dams at Western Avenue and May Avenue, also designed by Triad and Boyle, were constructed. Approximately three million cubic yards of sediment were excavated from the riverbed to create the May Avenue basin lake and sediment pond. The dams at Western Avenue (renamed The Paul H. Brum, Jr. Dam) and May Avenue were designed with operational boat locks to allow watercraft to navigate on the river. 

The planting of trees and the development of 13 miles of landscaped multi-use trails on the north and south banks of the river completed this 7-mile stretch and was renamed The Oklahoma River. The Oklahoma River has been called “the jewel” of Oklahoma City, hosting rowing and civic events throughout the year.  More than 50 billion gallons of water will flow through the Oklahoma River each year.

Triad Design is fortunate and very proud to have been involved in the planning, engineering, and construction activities of this historic and prominent icon of downtown Oklahoma City.

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