Repairs to Lake Tomahawk dam to begin in early 2024

Project expected to be completed next summer

Fred McCormick
The Valley Echo
December 15, 2023

Repairs to the dam on the south side of Lake Tomahawk are expected to begin in early 2024, the Town of Black Mountain announced, Dec. 12. Photo by Fred McCormick

Repairs to dam on the south side of Lake Tomahawk will begin in January or February of 2024, weather permitting, the Town of Black Mountain announced, Dec. 12.

The project, which will reinforce the earthen structure with overtop protection and a blanket and toe drain, is expected to be complete by next summer.

The town identified seepage in 2019, following the removal of trees that were threatening the structural integrity of the 89-year-old dam. Decaying roots created fissures in the grassy berm, which contributed to the issue, according to the town.

Local officials coordinated with N.C. Dam Safety, the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality and engineering firm, SM&E, to obtain permits and create a repair design. The work will be completed by Bakers Construction, Inc.

“During construction the walking trail will be closed at each side of the dam and the lake water level will be reduced several feet. Citizens will also notice the removal of three utility lights across the top of the dam which will be replaced with decorative path lighting,” the town said in a press release announcing the project. Photos, timelines and other updates will be available through the town’s website.

The 9-acre lake is fed by Tomahawk Branch on the north end, while the dam, at a height of 22 feet, allows water to collect in the man-made basin. The structure, which spans approximately 270 feet, is classified by the state as a high hazard dam. The town budgeted $500,000 in funding from the American Rescue Plan Act for the project, which will include the addition of articulated rock and topsoil and is expected to be completed by June of 2024.