Clay County Board of Commissioners Receives Update on TVA’s Chatuge Spillway Safety Modifications

CLAY COUNTY, N.C. – The Clay County Board of Commissioners was briefed today on the Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA) revised plans for the Chatuge Dam spillway safety modifications, marking a significant step forward in addressing critical safety concerns while prioritizing the community’s economic and environmental well-being.

The TVA announced that Alternative “B” has been eliminated from consideration, narrowing the focus to optimized versions of Alternatives “C,” “D,” and “E.” These options have been refined to reduce construction timelines, with the TVA estimating that the project will take no longer than five years to complete. Notably, the plan includes only two “off-season” periods (late summer to early spring) during which Lake Chatuge’s water levels will be lowered to 1,908 feet. For the remainder of the time, water levels are expected to remain stable, minimizing disruptions to the community.

The TVA is actively studying the project’s potential social, economic, and environmental impacts on Clay County, with a commitment to mitigating adverse effects while ensuring the spillway’s safety upgrades are fully implemented. At the request of the Clay County Board, the TVA is also preparing a comprehensive risk assessment to evaluate the potential consequences of a spillway failure, further underscoring their dedication to transparency and community safety.

“The safety of our residents is non-negotiable, and the economic vitality of our community is essential,” the Clay County Board of Commissioners stated in a press release. “We have always believed that both can be achieved through thoughtful, innovative, and community-focused solutions. Today’s update demonstrates the value of constructive engagement with the TVA in accomplishing shared goals.”

The Board expressed appreciation for the TVA’s transparent collaboration and incorporation of public input, emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding both lives and livelihoods. As the project progresses, the Board pledged to remain actively engaged with the TVA to ensure the community’s interests are protected.

The Chatuge Dam spillway modifications are a critical infrastructure project aimed at addressing safety concerns while preserving the economic and recreational significance of Lake Chatuge. Clay County’s partnership with the TVA continues to serve as a model for balancing safety, economic stability, and community well-being.