TVA begins year-long construction project at Beech Lake

LEXINGTON, Tenn. — The Tennessee Valley Authority began a year-long construction project at Beech Lake on Monday to stabilize the emergency spillway and relocate a 6-inch water line from the spillway area on Eastern Shores to the east side of the road.

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.

What Changes Are Expected During Construction?

The main entrance to the lake from West Church Street will be closed for one year. Access to the lake will be rerouted to 104 N during that time.

The Beech Lake Walking Path and Bob Henderson Road will be closed from March through October to ensure public safety during construction. The dam area will also be closed for the duration of the project.

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

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