Woodworth Dam Replacement Project

Project Details

The Woodworth Dam Replacement Project is a major water infrastructure initiative undertaken by the City of Prince Rupert to replace the original dam structure built in 1912. Designed to enhance the city’s potable water system, the new gravity concrete dam captures water from Woodworth Lake—Prince Rupert’s primary drinking water source—and includes key features such as abutments, a spillway, stilling basin, and retaining wall. In addition to increasing water security and reliability, the project eliminated the need for boil water notices that had plagued the community due to turbidity issues. It also incorporated structural upgrades to the 7 km access road and rigorous environmental protections during construction. Celebrated for its innovation and impact, the project earned the Lieutenant Governor’s Award and the Award of Excellence in Municipal and Civil Infrastructure from ACEC-BC in 2023.

Inline was contracted to provide construction survey and UAV services throughout the development of the new dam. Our role supported precise layout and verification during construction, leveraging UAV technology to capture real-time data and progress updates from the project site. This aerial insight ensured efficiency and accuracy for all major dam components, including the spillway and retaining structures. Inline also supported the upgrades to the access road by supplying detailed topographic information critical for alignment and grading work, contributing to the safe and seamless integration of the new infrastructure.