LAWRENCE, Kan. (WIBW) - Construction of the hydroelectric power plant in Lawrence is on schedule to be completed this December.

Bowersock Mills & Power Co. began the project to build a second plant on the north bank of the Kansas River last May. It has now completed excavation and the first level.

Crews had to build a coffer dam around the site to protect it from possible flooding.

Plant owner-operator Sarah Hill-Nelson said a significant portion of the $25 million project came from federal Recovery Act dollars.

"We would not be doing this project if it wasn't for the Recovery Act dollars," Hill-Nelson said.

Bowersock contracted the job to Kissick Construction. Project manager Matt Rothermel estimated that 30 - 35 workers are employed on the 18-month project.

The new powerhouse will have four generators and will triple the amount of electricity produced, from 11 million kilowatt hours per year to 33 million.

Upon completion Bowersock will sell its electricity to the Kansas City Board of Utilities, which will serve Wyandolte County, Hill-Nelson said.

Hill-Nelson said the new powerhouse will provide clean energy for well over 100 years.