With the end of World War II, Central Texas experienced unprecedented growth. To meet the increased demand for electricity, LCRA built two smaller dams between Inks Dam and Lake Travis to increase hydroelectric capacity.
Construction of Wirtz Dam began in 1949 and was built in tandem with Starcke Dam downstream. Roughly 600 workers helped to excavate, pour concrete, and install floodgates and turbines. Within two years, the dams were completed and ready to bring additional power to Central Texans.
The dam was originally called Granite Shoals, but was renamed in 1952 for Alvin J. Wirtz who was instrumental in LCRA’s creation and served as its first general counsel.
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