Lion'S Bridge Dam

TR-JAMES RIVER· Newport News, Virginia· Built 1931· Earth· 14 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Lion'S Bridge Dam is classified as significant hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1931 and is 95 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 14 ft (taller than 9.7% in VA)
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage1.2K acre-ft
Normal Storage408 acre-ft
Drainage Area5 sq mi
Year Completed1931 (95 years old)
NID IDVA700004

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

The Mariners' Museum and Park

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lion'S Bridge Dam?

Lion'S Bridge Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lion'S Bridge Dam?

Lion'S Bridge Dam is owned by The Mariners' Museum and Park (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lion'S Bridge Dam built?

Lion'S Bridge Dam was completed in 1931, making it 95 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 Lion'S Bridge Dam?

Lion'S Bridge Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Lion'S Bridge Dam?

Lion'S Bridge Dam 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.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.