KINGSPORT, Tenn. — Residents and visitors now have more ways to enjoy Boone Reservoir with the opening of a new swim beach and boat launch ramp on Tennessee Valley Authority land just north of Boone Dam.

Boone Beach officially opened Saturday, May 21, at 685 Minga Road. It features a stretch of white sand along with a new boat ramp, walking trails, a pavilion, a volleyball court and restrooms. In addition, American with Disabilities Act-compliant walking trails, grills, picnic areas, restrooms and parking spaces are available.

“We are pleased to be able to provide new recreation facilities for the community while the lake levels are below normal,” said TVA Construction Manager Kevin Holbrook. “These new facilities help confirm that Boone is still available for families to enjoy.” TVA is partnering with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Barnard Construction, Baker Construction Services and Summers Taylor to enhance the reservoir recreational facilities.

Boone Reservoir levels were lowered as a safety precaution in late 2014 after seepage was discovered in an earthen embankment at Boone Dam. A repair project is currently on schedule for completion between 2020 and 2022, but lake levels must remain at their current level during the repair to help ensure the safety of downstream residents and the more than 200 workers currently onsite.

In addition to the new Boone Beach, TVA has partnered with TWRA on a new boat launch ramp at Sugar Hollow, near Devault Bridge, and an expanded ramp at Pickens Bridge.

The Tennessee Valley Authority is a corporate agency of the United States that provides electricity for business customers and local power distributors serving more than 9 million people in parts of seven southeastern states. TVA receives no taxpayer funding, deriving virtually all of its revenues from sales of electricity. In addition to operating and investing its revenues in its electric system, TVA provides flood control, navigation and land management for the Tennessee River system and assists local power companies and state and local governments with economic development and job creation.