Design work continues on proposed whitewater recreation parks

Whitewater engineers Scott Shipley and Riley Adams of Calibre Engineering Inc. recently conducted site visits to the Raftsman Dam in Clearfield and Pee Wee’s Nest Dam in Irvin Park, Curwensville, as design work continues for the proposed Whitewater Recreation Parks. During the site visits, engineers identified potential water trail access points both upstream and downstream of the features to help ensure ADA-accessible public access. The project team continues to evaluate how the designs can improve river safety, maintain upstream water elevations, and enhance fish and aquatic habitat. — Courtesy photo

Removing low-head dams will increase opportunities on waterways

Whitewater engineers Scott Shipley and Riley Adams of Calibre Engineering Inc. recently conducted site visits to the Raftsman Dam in Clearfield and Pee Wee’s Nest Dam in Irvin Park, Curwensville, as design work continues on the proposed Whitewater Recreation Parks.

Bathymetric survey data has been collected at both locations. The project has now entered into the two-dimensional hydraulic modeling phase. This modeling will support multiple state and federal permitting requirements and help refine the design of the proposed in-water structures.

During the site visits, engineers identified potential water trail access points both upstream and downstream of the proposed features to help ensure ADA-accessible public access. The project team continues to evaluate how the designs can improve river safety, maintain upstream water elevations, and enhance fish and aquatic habitat.

The Whitewater Recreation Parks initiative is intended to enhance public river access while providing a sustainable alternative to aging low-head dams. The design concept seeks to preserve the recreational and cultural value of local waterways while improving environmental conditions and public safety.

In December 2024, Calibre Engineering of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, was selected as the lead design firm. The company is collaborating with Stahl Sheaffer Engineering of Clearfield to oversee preliminary and final design, permitting and bidding support services for both the Clearfield and Curwensville project areas.

Throughout 2025, Town Hall and public meetings were held in both communities to provide project updates, answer questions, and gather public feedback. While community perspectives remain mixed, project partners continue to advance the planning and engineering process.

Curwensville Borough and Clearly Ahead Development have since partnered to submit competitive grant applications to support future construction of the whitewater feature in Irvin Park. 

“This initiative represents more than a local recreation project — it reflects a broader vision for how Pennsylvania can reimagine its waterways for the next generation,” said Rob Swales, CEO of Clearly Ahead Development. 

“Across the Commonwealth, there is growing momentum to remove or modernize non-flood control low-head dams in ways that improve public safety, restore natural river function, and expand outdoor recreation. By exploring innovative whitewater design solutions, our communities are positioning themselves at the forefront of that movement — enhancing environmental stewardship, strengthening tourism, and creating vibrant riverfront destinations that honor both our heritage and our future,” Swales said.

The proposed improvements aim to enhance outdoor recreation amenities for local residents while strengthening regional tourism opportunities.

For more information, including a Frequently Asked Questions document and the original Whitewater Parks Feasibility Study, visit www.ClearlyAhead.com.