North Carolina Construction News staff writer
Zachry Construction, a contractor working on behalf of the Town of Wake Forest, closed access to the Wake Forest Reservoir Nov. 9. The temporary closure is necessary to allow crews to begin preparing for a series of improvements to the reservoir dam and associated infrastructure, including the dam embankment, spillway, and outlet structure, to enhance the reservoir’s long-term safety, reliability, and resilience.
The project will occur in three phases.
This week the town started the controlled drawdown of the reservoir. The lake level will be lowered gradually over several weeks to provide safe access for construction. The timing and rate of drawdown may be adjusted based on weather, site conditions, and construction requirements.
Once the correct water level is reached, construction activities will commence to include dam improvements, spillway and outlet structure work, earthwork, demolition, and related site improvements. Following completion of the necessary work and authorization to restore the reservoir, the lake will be allowed to refill naturally. The timing and rate of refill will depend on rainfall, weather conditions, and overall reservoir conditions.
During the drawdown and construction phases, community members and visitors may notice:
- Receding shorelines and exposed areas of the lakebed.
- Temporary changes to the appearance and use of the reservoir.
- Restrictions or closures affecting boating, fishing, and other recreational activities.
- Temporary odors associated with exposed lake sediments.
- Increased construction activity, equipment, and vehicle traffic in and around the project area.
- Potential impacts to fish and aquatic wildlife. Fish populations and aquatic habitat may take time to rebound following completion of the project.