Fayette approves dam replacement

Fayette County recently approved funding for the first of three major dam repairs. Late last week, the Board of Commissioners awarded a $2.7 million contract for construction and another $201,924 for administration and monitoring to replace the Emerald Lake Dam in The Woodlands subdivision off South Jeff Davis Drive. The 600-foot-long dam, which is underneath the only road going to and from about 100 homes, has started to fail due to corrosion and erosion. The new dam will increase the structure’s hydraulic capacity and comply with stricter state guidelines. However, county budget adjustments to cover the cost leave funding for two other dam repair projects undetermined.