The start of construction on the Crissy Lake Modification Project has been postponed to Fall 2027 due to a previously unforeseen permitting requirement.
Project reviewers determined that the work requires certification under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, a process that typically takes three to six months to complete. Additional information on this certification process is available through the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s summary.
Project partners say the revised timeline provides additional time to refine the project design with the goal of minimizing disruption to the site’s flora and fauna, downstream ecosystems, and surrounding community.
Under the updated schedule, work is expected to proceed as follows:
Early Fall 2027: Gradual drawdown of the lake water level begins.
Late Fall–Early Winter 2027: State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reviews take place, followed by installation of the rock arch rapids and recreational access features.
Early Spring 2028: Seeding of restored areas begins.
Late Spring 2028: The site is expected to reopen to the public following spring thaw.
