Binghamton May Consider Removing Rockbottom Dam

The Rockbottom Dam, which has been a fixture in the Susquehanna River for two centuries, might become a thing of the past.

Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham on Friday said he believes it's time for the city to consider removing the low-head dam.

According to historians, the dam was built in 1828 to power a nearby gristmill. The city acquired the structure several decades ago to control river levels for the nearby water filtration plant.

Water rushes over the Rockbottom Dam in the Susquehanna River on October 9, 2026. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Three Binghamton firefighters died in the flood-swollen river near the Rockbottom Dam over a two-day period in September 1975. The mayor said the dam continues to pose a "huge safety risk" for the downtown district and prevents people from safely using the river.

Kraham said after reading a news story about a growing movement across the country to remove this type of dam, he started to explore the idea. He said he contacted the state Department of Environmental Conservation and the nonprofit group American Rivers.

The mayor told WNBF News he believes there could be significant environmental benefits and big benefits for first responders who engage in river rescue operations.

A serene pool of water east of the Rockbottom Dam on October 9, 2026. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Kraham wants the idea of removing the dam to be explored. He said there will be a need to determine if the structure still necessary for the city's water supply.

The mayor said if a study indicates it's feasible, it's possible the Rockbottom Dam could be removed "in the next four or five years - maybe sooner."

Kraham said he has no estimate of the cost of such a project.

WNBF NEWS VIDEO: A close-up look at the Rockbottom Dam on October 9, 2026.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com.