SAVANNAH, Tenn. — The Tennessee Valley Authority invites the public to review and comment on its draft Environmental Assessment for upgrades to the south embankment of Pickwick Landing Dam. The work will enhance the dam’s capability to continue to safely perform during and after an extreme seismic event.

After a comprehensive study of multiple options, TVA’s preferred alternative is to complete upgrades to both the upstream and downstream sides of the embankment, including the construction of berms and placement of fill.

Travel on Highway 128 crossing the dam will not be impacted by the proposed construction. If approved, initial work would begin in fall 2016 with a projected completion in late 2021.

A 2014 seismic stability evaluation indicates that a large earthquake could potentially damage the embankment, making the proposed action necessary. As a result, TVA immediately placed early warning equipment at the dam. TVA also worked with local and state agencies to develop an early warning system in the event of a large-scale seismic event.

The public comment period runs from Aug. 12 through Sept 12, 2016. The draft Environmental Assessment can be found at https://tva.com/Environment/Environmental-Stewardship/Environmental-Reviews/Pickwick-Landing-Dam-South-Embankment-Seismic-Upgrade.

Comments must be received by Sept. 12 and can be sent via e-mail to [email protected], via phone at (865) 632-8051 or post to: Matthew Higdon, NEPA Project Manager, 400 West Summit Hill Dr., WT-11D, Knoxville, Tenn. 37902. Any comments received, including names and addresses, will become part of the project administrative record and will be available for public inspection.