The rowing venue is two kilometers east of the Sabana del Puerto point on the map. We are not an official source, but we understand the rowers will be lodged in the Alpes Dominicanos residential-hotel in Jarabacoa. The Salesianos lodging also in Jarabacoa will also be used, but not sure this is for the rowers or for the mountain bikers that will be competing in Jarabacoa. Could be for both. I would say it takes about 40 minutes from Jarabacoa to the rowing venue, about the same from Santiago. While Santiago is many more kilometers away, the shorter driving time is because of the good road. Jarabacoa road goes up the mountain. Forget what the drive books say about the police. Dominicans are good hosts, and you can expect red carpet treatment from police and most people here. Jarabacoa is a prettier area (mountain resort area). You may still be able to find lodging in Jarabacoa. The driving up and down the mountain is not so bad (if you have not rented a car by now, may be difficult to find one available at this time). But it may be less stressful to stay in Santiago. If you are not driving, there should be small buses that go from Santiago to Sabana del Puerto for real cheap. You need to ask around in Sabana del Puerto. Once in Sabana del Puerto, there should be some transportation to get you the extra 2 kms to the Rincon Dam. The closest place to stay would have been in the Hotel Jacaranda (12 kms away 809 525-5590) but they should be fully booked by now. Regarding driving, if you can still find a car, go for it. The highway is in good condition, lovely views, smooth driving and you will have much more freedom to visit Jarabacoa. Rancho restaurant on the main road to Jarabacoa is good, so is the famous Tipico Bonao on the highway to Sabana del Puerto. For Dominican food. The Rincon Dam facility is brand new and nice. Again, bring hats and lots of sun block.
Be sure to visit the Palmarejo Equestrian Center, also off the same Duarte Highway (see description link in another of these threads). Lovely facility. Designed by the same person who did the Sydney Olympic Center and a Kentucky Horse Park architect.