Lawton, OK – Repairs at Lake Ellsworth Dam in Oklahoma are approximately 60% complete, with the project remaining on schedule for completion in late March 2028, according to the City of Lawton.
Since the previous update in April, crews have continued installing rock anchors and pouring concrete slabs. Work has also included demolishing concrete along the dam’s ogee, the curved section of its spillway, and pouring concrete for baffle blocks, chute blocks and end sills.
Remaining work includes completing the concrete structures and constructing training walls. Public Works Director Rusty Whisenhunt said the project remains on schedule and its total cost has not changed.
The project is funded through two American Rescue Plan Act grants, a High Hazard Dam Grant and a State Revolving Fund loan that will be repaid through utility rates.
Meanwhile, construction, evaporation and drought conditions have contributed to lower-than-normal water levels at the lake.
As of October 13, 2026, Lake Ellsworth’s elevation was 1,221.78 feet, compared with its normal pool elevation of 1,235 feet. The lake was lowered to 1,229 feet in May 2025 to accommodate the dam repairs, and its level has since fallen another 7.22 feet.
The city expects water levels to remain below normal throughout the rest of the project and is warning visitors to use caution. Lower levels may expose rocks, trees, land and debris, while other hazards could remain hidden beneath the water’s surface.
Visitors are encouraged to stay alert because areas normally covered by water may present unfamiliar dangers as lake conditions continue to change.
