Wilson Dam Main Lock, Road Across Dam Closed
August 3, 2006
MUSCLE SHOALS, Ala. – TVA and the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers have closed the main navigation lock of Wilson Dam until further notice to repair damage caused by a barge attempting to lock through on Thursday morning, Aug. 3.
No injuries were reported.
The roadway over the dam will be closed until the barge, which is carrying a flammable cargo, is removed from the lock. Motorists that use the roadway should seek an alternate route.
The U.S. Coast Guard has closed river traffic in the immediate vicinity of Wilson Lock including the auxiliary lock.
The material being transported to BP in Decatur, Ala. is ethylbenzene xylene and is used in the manufacture of polyester fiber. No leaks of the material have occurred, although hazardous materials experts are on site along with emergency response crews as a precaution.
TVA is the nation’s largest public power provider and is completely self-financed with revenues of $7.8 billion in 2005. TVA provides power to large industries and 158 power distributors that serve approximately 8.6 million consumers in seven southeastern states. TVA also manages the Tennessee River and its tributaries to provide multiple benefits, including flood damage reduction, navigation, water quality and recreation.
Media Contact
Barbara Martocci, Knoxville, (865) 632-8632
TVA News Bureau, Knoxville, (865) 632-6000
Mike Ensch, Chief Operations Division,
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, (256) 766-8052
