San Diego to Lower Lake Hodges Dam Spillway by 2030

The city plans a multi-year project to reduce flood risks at the 108-year-old dam structure.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Utilities

Isometric editorial illustration of a tiered concrete dam spillway structure, representing urban water safety and infrastructure management. — San Diego city officials have scheduled a multi-year engineering project to lower the Lake Hodges Dam spillway height by 2030. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Starting in 2030, San Diego will lower the Lake Hodges Dam spillway from 315 feet to 280 feet to mitigate significant flood hazards. The infrastructure project is scheduled to reach completion by 2034.

Why it matters

The modification aims to address safety concerns after the state designated the structure as the most dangerous dam in California. Lowering the spillway will provide more effective reservoir management during heavy rain, preventing reliance on a drainage pipe that could be overwhelmed.

The proposed spillway modification carries an estimated cost of $30 million to $50 million. The project will take seven years to complete as the city addresses risks currently managed by a 36-inch release pipe.

The players

California Division of Safety of Dams

This state regulatory body is responsible for the oversight and inspection of dam safety across California.

San Diego

This city municipal government manages local water infrastructure and reservoir safety for its residents.

The details

The current spillway height of 315 feet has been deemed a safety liability, leading to an unsatisfactory rating from the California Division of Safety of Dams in 2023. Officials are prioritizing this 35-foot reduction to improve water release capacity during severe weather events.

2012: The city completed a water pump project at a cost of $208 million.
2023: State officials issued an unsatisfactory safety rating for the dam.
2024: The city secured a $240.6 million federal loan.
2030: Construction on the spillway project is expected to commence.
2034: The spillway lowering project is slated for completion.

Market Landscape

This project follows safety mandates established by the California Division of Safety of Dams after the agency labeled the site as the state's most dangerous. It represents a significant shift from the city's previous reliance on auxiliary pump systems to manage reservoir levels.

The city is utilizing a $240.6 million federal loan to fund long-term safety improvements that reduce the threat of flooding in downstream communities. Residents should expect construction activity to continue through 2034 as the city works to secure the site.

The takeaway

Proactive infrastructure upgrades are essential for aging facilities to meet modern safety requirements. Residents in downstream areas should stay informed on city updates regarding flood mitigation as the 108-year-old dam undergoes reconstruction.