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BOILING SPRINGS -- The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) has announced that the refilling process has begun at Children's Lake in Boiling Springs (South Middleton Township), Cumberland County following a nearly year-long, $5.2 million rehabilitation project. The public should begin to notice the lake refilling with water slowly over the next few days, with complete refill expected in approximately two weeks.
"This is a long-awaited milestone in the process of bringing Children's Lake back to the community and delivering something that is truly better than ever," Tim Schaeffer, PFBC Executive Director, said. "While the lake has been missed by anglers and boaters over the past year, we're proud to say that work was completed ahead of schedule and the wait is almost over. Thank you to everyone who has had a role in making this a reality."
In June 2016, after a sinkhole appeared near Bucher Hill Road, seepage and structural deficiencies were discovered in the existing dam at Children's Lake. The PFBC, South Middleton Township, private donors, and local residents combined efforts to fund the early design work, and in March 2018, Governor Tom Wolf authorized the release of $2.4 million in capital budget funds to advance the project. In June 2022, state legislators helped secure the release of additional capital funds, and groundbreaking on the construction project was held on Sept. 2, 2022. The extensive rehabilitation project included the construction of a new dam, spillway, and retaining wall. Amenities added to the lake property include an upgraded boat launch and ADA fishing area that were funded through various grants.
"Children's Lake is a cherished landmark that is so vital to who we are as a community," Cory Adams, South Middleton Township Manager, said. "It stands as a testament to what people from all walks of life are capable of when faced with a challenge. We are so thankful to our partners within the state government, including the Fish and Boat Commission, our legislative delegation, and the Governor's office. We look forward to enjoying the beautiful new lake for many years to come."
"This great day is proof that when state officials, local representatives, and community members work together, great things can happen," Sen. Greg Rothman (PA-34), said. "Thanks to hard work, dedication, and perseverance, Children's Lake will be treasured and enjoyed for many generations to come."
Refilling of the lake is intentionally performed slowly to allow PFBC engineers to monitor the new concrete dam structures and retaining walls, which will be placed under a tremendous amount of pressure for the first time as water is introduced. Regular inspections will occur in the coming weeks to ensure safety and monitor dam performance. Refilling the lake slowly also limits the amount of sediment that is stirred up within the lake and flows into downstream waterways.
With refill underway, anglers and boaters may begin to use the lake as soon as conditions allow. However, anyone entering the lake area during the refill process should use caution and avoid areas that may become muddy or slippery. Boaters should avoid entering the lake before water levels have adequately covered the paved launch areas to allow for safe entry into the water. Boaters are reminded to always wear a life jacket.
A celebration of the renewed lake is currently being planned by local project partners and will be announced at a later date.