The proposed project has been part of the plans for the dam for a number of years. The dam previously generated power from 1912 to 1966, but owners of the plant Excel Energy decided at that time that it was not worth maintaining.
The future plans include a transfer of ownership to the MMPA, enabling the Hennepin Park District full rights to use the property and acreage surrounding it as a recreational facility. The MMPA currently provides electricity to nine of its member cities and their customers via a total 300MW load.