TVA begins construction project at Beech Lake

LEXINGTON, Tenn. — The Tennessee Valley Authority has begun construction project at Beech Lake to stabilize the emergency spillway.

TVA said this project will increase the resiliency of Beech Dam’s grass-lined spillway against erosion. The spillway will be regraded to eliminate the curvature of the channel and ensure flows will be predictable and evenly distributed across it.

After regrading is complete, an articulated concrete block system comprised of interconnected concrete blocks will be installed on the steep section of the spillway. The system is engineered to withstand the anticipated force of flows on the spillway after heavy rainfall events.

In the event of a heavy rainfall event, TVA said the reservoir will be lowered in advance to reduce the risk of water overtopping the spillway.

The TVA says it believes much of the work on the spillway will be complete by September.

What Changes Are Expected During Construction?

The Beech Lake Walking Path and Bob Henderson Road will be closed from March through October to ensure public safety during construction. These are the only closures associated with the work.

The project is a TVA initiative. The Beech River Watershed Development Authority (BRWDA) has no authority over the matter.

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