Walter E. Long Park’s Decker Dam Slated for Upgrades

August 7, 2024

Decker Dam at Lake Walter E. Long is getting a well-earned upgrade after nearly 60 years of service.

Austin Energy, which works with the Austin Parks and Recreation Department in managing water levels in the 1,200-acre lake, will replace the gates and anchors for the dam. The City’s electric utility uses the water in Decker Lake as part of its operations at the nearby Decker Power Plant. Austin Energy is currently drafting the specific requirements for the upgrade but expects the project to last from spring 2025 into 2027. Once launched, periodic project updates will be posted here.

The dam and gates that shape Lake Walter E. Long were designed and installed in 1967. Almost 60 years later, it’s time to improve and upgrade that equipment, bringing it up to current regulations and specifications, increasing safety and protecting a local gem for the future.

“Decker Dam has helped create a beloved natural space for decades and our focus is on making sure that it does so for generations to come,” said Lisa Martin, Chief Operations Officer for Austin Energy.

To prepare for this project, the lake level will gradually be lowered through natural evaporation to 550 feet. This protects the gates that are in place and creates better conditions for equipment upgrades. The lake will be kept at that level until work on the dam allows the gates to support a higher lake level and weather conditions allow that level to increase.

As lake levels proceed below 554 feet, the park’s boat ramps will close until work is completed. Boat ramp operations will be updated at austintexas.gov/parkclosures. Lake access will remain available for shore-launched watercraft such as canoes and kayaks. Other park amenities, such as volleyball courts, picnic sites, grills and walking trails, will remain available.