Work continues on the Tenkiller Dam spillway bridge replacement project near Gore, Okla., Feb. 10, 2026.
The main spillway bridge closed Oct. 6, 2025, for pre-construction work including building a walkway, setting the gantry crane and staging equipment.
The contractor, Kiewett Construction, is replacing the existing steel structure with a modern concrete design.
“Active demolition continues to progress on the existing bridge structure at Tenkiller Dam," said Raymond Todd, project manager, Tulsa District.
The road deck and sidewalks have been completely removed with girders and beams on Spans 9 & 10 recently removed.
"The Dam continues to stay fully operational during demolition and construction of the new bridge structure with the project maintaining on course for completion in 2027," said Todd. "We greatly appreciate the public’s patience while we deliver this mission critical infrastructure project to the surrounding communities for many years to come,”
Major construction for Tenkiller Lake began in June 1947. The spillway, outlet works, and tunnels were completed in 1951, and embankment closure occurred in May 1952. Impoundment of the power pool began in July 1952. The project was completed for full flood control operation in July 1953. Installation of the two hydropower units was completed in December 1953, and power generation was initiated.
Work on the project is expected to last approximately two years, though the timeline may shift depending on weather and other factors.