Press Releases

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew announced that South Jersey's Lake Lenape Dam has won a national competition held by the Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO) for their highest honor, the 2026 National Dam Rehabilitation Award. The project was made possible after Congressman Van Drew secured $4.6 million in federal funding to replace the deteriorated, high-hazard dam.

"This National Dam Award proves that South Jersey can achieve greatness," said Congressman Van Drew. "This is a big deal. There is only one project selected from across the entire country. I worked closely with Atlantic County and Hamilton Township to nominate the Lake Lenape Dam and win this award. The dam is now a strong, secure, technologically advanced piece of infrastructure that some residents are calling the most beautiful dam in America. Thank you to ASDSO for this tremendous honor."

"The Association of State Dam Safety Officials is proud to recognize the Lake Lenape Dam Rehabilitation and Spillway Reconstruction Project as our 2026 National Rehabilitation Project of the Year," said ASDSO President John Roche. "The project is innovative in its approach to design and funding, while also providing environmental, economic and community benefits. The project will serve as a case study on how to successfully and proactively invest in public safety at our nation's dams."

"The renovation of this historic dam would not have happened without Congressman Van Drew's support," stated Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson. "We're proud of this national recognition that further showcases Atlantic County."

"What a proud moment for everyone involved! The residents that signed petitions, the local businesses that wrote letters and Congressman Van Drew, helping us secure the $4.6 million grant, which really put this project on the road to completion," said Mayor Carl Pitale of Hamilton Township. "Kudos to Atlantic County, the Township of Hamilton, WSP-USA and South State Incorporated for getting this beautiful dam built safely, efficiently and on schedule. We no longer need to worry about the safety of our residents every time a significant rain event comes around. An important piece of infrastructure is now replaced and has become a magnificent focal point of Downtown Mays Landing! Once again, thank