Why Is the Lafayette Reservoir Tower Shorter? What Locals Should Know

If you've walked around Lafayette Reservoir lately, you've probably noticed something looks a little different. The familiar tower rising out of the water is noticeably shorter.

For anyone who has spent time in Lafayette, that tower is more than just part of the reservoir. It's one of those landmarks you recognize immediately, whether you're walking the loop, driving through town, or seeing it on a local sign.

So why did they shorten it? And what does that mean for everyone who enjoys the reservoir?

The story is actually pretty interesting, and it goes back almost 100 years.

Why Was the Lafayette Reservoir Tower So Tall?

Here's something I didn't realize until learning more about the project: the Lafayette Reservoir was originally supposed to be much larger than it is today.

When construction began in 1927, engineers planned a dam that would be 33 feet taller, creating a reservoir nearly three times its current size.

But during construction, the earth-filled dam began showing signs of instability. The original design had to be changed, and the dam was built at a lower height.

The tower, however, had already been designed for the larger reservoir.

When it was completed in 1929, it stood approximately 40 feet taller than necessary.

And there it remained for nearly a century.

Over time, that extra-tall tower became one of Lafayette's most recognizable landmarks. It's appeared on city materials, local artwork, and countless photographs taken by people enjoying the reservoir.

I find it fascinating that something so closely associated with Lafayette's identity came from a construction plan that never quite happened.

Why Did EBMUD Shorten the Lafayette Reservoir Tower?

The decision wasn't simply about appearance or maintenance.

According to the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), the tower plays an important role in the reservoir's safety. It serves as the spillway and provides a way to drain water when necessary.

Engineering studies identified concerns about how the aging structure might perform during a major earthquake.

The California Division of Safety of Dams required improvements to address those risks.

After reviewing different options, including designs that would have preserved the tower's original height, EBMUD moved forward with shortening the structure and strengthening its operating systems.

The project has an estimated cost of approximately $14 million.

I know the change has been emotional for some longtime residents. When you've looked at the same landmark for decades, it's understandable to feel attached to it.

The good news is that the project was designed to preserve the tower's familiar character while improving its safety.

What Changed During the 2026 Construction?

Construction began making a noticeable difference this summer.

Crews removed the old operating house at the top of the tower and began carefully cutting away sections of the concrete structure.

The work involved removing 13 concrete rings, each approximately three feet tall.

Because the tower sits in the middle of the reservoir, crews used cranes and a barge to complete the work.

By late August, the tower had reached, or was very close to, its planned new height.

The next step is installing a new operating house designed to resemble the original structure.

EBMUD's published schedule calls for that installation in November 2026, followed by additional work in 2027.

So while the tower may look unfinished during your next visit, the current appearance isn't necessarily what you'll see when the project is complete.

Is Lafayette Reservoir Still Open During Construction?

Yes. One of the nice things about this project is that the reservoir has remained available for most recreational activities throughout construction.

If you're planning a visit, here's what to know based on EBMUD's published project updates.

Walking the paved reservoir loop

The popular Lakeside Nature Trail remains accessible, although there may be occasional short delays when construction equipment needs to cross the path.

EBMUD has indicated that these interruptions may last approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

Fishing, hiking, and picnicking

These activities have generally continued during construction. You may notice equipment or hear construction noise near active work areas.

Parking and driving

No major vehicle closures were planned specifically for the tower project, although traffic may occasionally be stopped to accommodate equipment.

Other nearby construction

EBMUD is also working on the recreation area's wastewater collection system, so not every construction area you see is related to the tower.

As always, it's worth checking the latest updates before heading out.

You can find current project information at EBMUD's Lafayette Reservoir Tower Project.

What About the Walter Costa Trail?

If you like extending your reservoir walk beyond the paved loop, there's another construction project worth knowing about.

A section of the Walter Costa Trail near the Lafayette Water Treatment Plant has been closed because of improvements at the plant.

The affected stretch is approximately 0.3 miles, and EBMUD has identified a detour along nearby streets.

This closure is separate from the reservoir tower work.

If you're planning a longer hike, I'd check the latest trail information before heading out, particularly if you have a favorite route.

When Will the Lafayette Reservoir Tower Project Be Finished?

According to EBMUD's published schedule, work on the tower will pause during the seasonal environmental work restrictions and resume in spring 2027.

Crews are expected to install new underwater gates, electric operating equipment, and other improvements.

Testing and final commissioning will follow.

The current target for completing the tower project is fall 2027.

The schedule also takes local wildlife into consideration.

Environmental monitors have been involved in protecting nesting birds and other species around the reservoir during construction.

That includes the swallows that have historically nested on the tower.

EBMUD has indicated that the swallows should be able to return once the project is finished.

I appreciate that this work is about more than just the structure itself. The reservoir is an important natural habitat, and protecting that environment matters too.

Planning a Visit to Lafayette Reservoir

Whether you're a longtime Lafayette resident or visiting for the first time, the reservoir is one of my favorite examples of what makes this community special.

There are options for just about everyone, from a relaxed walk along the paved loop to a more challenging hike on the surrounding trails.

You can also enjoy fishing, boating, picnicking, or simply sitting by the water.

According to EBMUD's published 2026 fee schedule:

• Daily parking and entry: $7
• Hourly parking: $2
• Daily fishing access: $6

Boat rentals are also available, with pricing and hours varying by rental type.

Check EBMUD for the latest recreation fees, hours, and construction notices before visiting.

Why Lafayette Reservoir Means So Much to the Community

One of the things I love about Lafayette is how naturally outdoor spaces fit into everyday life here.

The reservoir is a perfect example.

On any given day, you'll see people out for their morning walks, families enjoying the water, runners getting their miles in, and neighbors stopping to catch up along the trail.

It's not just a place people visit occasionally. For many residents, it's part of their regular routine.

And that's something I think about when helping people explore Lafayette's different neighborhoods.

A home is obviously important, but so is everything around it. The trails you can walk, the places you take your kids, the restaurants you return to, and the everyday experiences that make a community feel like home.

Lafayette has a wonderful mix of neighborhoods, from homes closer to downtown and the reservoir to quieter residential streets with larger lots and beautiful views.

Each offers a slightly different way of enjoying the area.

It's one of the reasons I always encourage buyers to spend time getting to know a neighborhood, not just the homes for sale.

A Familiar Lafayette Landmark, Just a Little Different

The Lafayette Reservoir tower may never look exactly the way it did before, and I know some residents will miss its original height.

But I like knowing the history behind the change.

What started as an engineering decision nearly a century ago became one of Lafayette's most familiar landmarks. Now it's being updated so it can continue serving the community for years to come.

And the best part of the reservoir hasn't changed.

It's still a beautiful place to walk, enjoy the outdoors, and spend time with the people who matter to you.

If you have memories of the old tower, I'd love to hear them.

And if you're thinking about buying or selling a home in Lafayette, or simply curious about its different neighborhoods, I'm always happy to share what I know.

Jen Moeller | Realtor® at Compass

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