An historic symbol of South Natick admired by generations of artists and nature lovers is closer to being removed.

According to the town’s Department of Public Works, the Charles River Dam is scheduled to be demolished later this year, as part of overall site improvements. 

The town has sent out bids for a dam removal contractor. According to Town Administrator James Errickson, “the bidding process is nearing completion with a potential award this spring.”

He added that “a contract is not yet executed, but pending final contract award the work is targeted for this summer.”

The town decided to remove the dam following a “high hazard” designation from the state’s Office of Dam Safety, meaning failure could lead to serious damage and loss of life. 

In addition, inspections by the town and state over the past several years have revealed erosion on top of the earthen berm and deteriorated stone and masonry on the walls on both sides of the spillway.

According to the town’s Conservation Commission, taking down the dam would remove the threat of a potential breach; reduce flooding during and after storms; and help improve fish migration and adjacent wildlife habitats.

A dam has been a part of South Natick since its establishment as a Praying Indian community in the 1700s. 

Until the early 1900s, the dam provided water power for a grist mill. When the mill was removed, and the present dam built in 1934, the millstones became part of the viewing area.

Most of the costs for the dam removal are being covered with a $1 million Dam and Seawall grant from the state. The current costs are estimated at about $1.2 million.

The removal is part of two separate but related projects. The Recreation and Parks Department is planning upgrades to the parks flanking the river, as well as the multipurpose area and the Hunnewell fields, both off Pleasant Street.

According to Andrea Snell, the town’s director of Community Services, the upgrades will include new accessible walkways, picnic area, new tree plantings, rain gardens, stormwater improvements, and a small paved parking space at the multipurpose area.

The project is still in its early planning stages, including design work and cost estimates.

The small wooded area between the dam and the bridge, known as Horace Holyoke Island, is expected to remain following the dam removal, she added.

Updates are available via https://natickma.gov/1676/Project-Dam-Removal-River-Restoration