Hydro Dam Crest Gate Alternatives Analysis

2026-11-03

The Village of Swanton ( Village ) is seeking professional engineering services to develop preliminary design alternatives for rehabilitation of the Highgate Falls ’ existing crest gate system . Specifically , the Village desires to contract with a qualified firm for professional engineering services to develop design alternatives to replace the failed rubber dam at the Swanton Village Electric Department ’ s Highgate Falls Hydropower Project located in Highgate Falls , Vermont . The Highgate Falls Hydropower Plant is licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ( FERC )( FERC Project No . 2547 ). All design alternatives will be considered and could include , but are not limited to , a raised concrete crest , installation of pneumatic or hydraulic crest gates , or combinations of crest raising and gate installation . A fourth , separate “ do - nothing ” option shall also be evaluated . Under a “ do - nothing ” scenario , the Village would also solicit an assessment of whether to operate the Plant as - is without a replacement spillway section , sell , and / or decommission the Plant . The Village further encourages applicants to propose additional or innovative alternatives that may offer improved performance , cost - effectiveness , constructability , or operational benefits beyond those identified above .

Vermont

2026-04-28