Central Falls
Key Takeaway
Central Falls is classified as low hazard in Rhode Island. It was completed in 1850 and is 176 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 14 ft (taller than 61.3% in RI) |
| Dam Length | 220 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 160 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 98 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 473 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 17,300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1850 (176 years old) |
| NID ID | RI00402 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
RI DEM
State Government
Nearby Dams
Pawtucket Upper
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 15 ftPawtucket Lower
Providence, RI
Significant Hazard 4 ftHappy Hollow Pond
Providence, RI
Significant Hazard 15 ftValley Falls
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 31 ftRobin Hollow Pond
Providence, RI
Significant Hazard 13 ftBleachery Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 8 ftBarney Pond
Providence, RI
High Hazard 19 ftPratt
Providence, RI
Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Central Falls?
Central Falls is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Central Falls?
Central Falls is owned by RI DEM (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Central Falls built?
Central Falls was completed in 1850, making it 176 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Central Falls?
Central Falls serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Central Falls?
Central Falls has a dam height of 14 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.