PIQUA — A packed room at Fort Piqua Plaza gathered Thursday night as city leaders discussed a controversial state-led dam and canal project that could significantly impact the community.
Utility Director Kevin Krejny and other city officials shared concerns that the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is pushing a hydraulic infrastructure overhaul on Piqua without sufficient local input. Among the most serious issues is the possibility of relocating nearly 2,400 burial plots at Forest Hill Cemetery — a process that could take years and cost over $12 million.
Commissioner Frank DeBrosse emphasized that city leaders are exploring every possible avenue to push back against the proposal, including legal options if necessary. He stressed that no final decisions have been made yet.
A presentation by engineering firm Stantec and Krejny reviewed ODNR’s recent inspection findings for the city’s dam systems, which show the need to boost hydraulic capacity. City leaders stressed that while minor maintenance needs were noted, the real challenge is the system’s current 12% capacity compared to ODNR’s standards.
Krejny also mentioned rising insurance costs and uncertainties around federal funding due to changes in grant availability. He warned the proposed project could affect multiple public areas, including parks, trails, drinking water infrastructure, and roads — not to mention the removal of hundreds of trees.
ODNR’s potential plans include major modifications at Swift Run Lake, Echo Lake, and Franz Pond, such as new spillways, embankments, and expanded canals. Efforts to lower Swift Run Dam’s hazard classification were rejected by the state.
City leaders urged residents to stay informed, as the state has initiated similar projects elsewhere and may soon move forward in Piqua.
More information is available at piquaoh.gov.
Photo Credit: City of Piqua
