The City of Fairfield has started lowering Walton Lake to replace the golf cart bridge, though uncertainty remains about whether the work can be completed before winter. The city contracted with Drish Construction to install an earthen dam with a large box culvert, but delays in state permitting and a 12-week wait for culvert delivery have put the timeline in doubt.
The project has divided residents, with some urging the city to honor its agreement with Drish while others argue that, without a permit from the Department of Natural Resources, construction could be challenged in court. Opponent Ed Noyes has already filed a lawsuit to stop the drawdown and plans further legal action.
Public comment at this week’s council meeting stretched nearly three hours, with some residents advocating for less costly alternatives, such as a steel bridge quoted at $37,000. However, engineers warned that option would not meet Iowa regulations or weight requirements. City staff and project managers continue to recommend moving forward with the box culvert plan, despite the higher price tag of nearly $200,000.
The city faces a key hearing in October while work on the lake progresses. Whether the replacement can be finished this year will depend on equipment availability and winter weather conditions.
