U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced today that the U.S. House of Representatives has approved funding for the continued rehabilitation of Wolf Creek Dam.  H.R. 2354, the FY12 Energy & Water Appropriations Bill includes $132 million in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ construction budget for ongoing repairs at the dam.  The legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration.

“Fixing Wolf Creek Dam is a national priority and I will continue to support these ongoing repairs. I’m pleased we were able to fully fund this effort, even in these difficult budget times,” said Rogers. “Like my constituents, I’m frustrated by continued delays and engineering set-backs which keep pushing the completion date further into the future.  With the challenges at Critical Area 1 seemingly resolved, I expect the Corps to move full steam ahead to make necessary remediations and raise the pool at scenic Lake Cumberland, the crown jewel of southern and eastern Kentucky. Thousands of visitors annually take advantage of the many recreational opportunities afforded by the lake, but with the economy still in a tailspin, the sooner we can put these repairs behind us, the sooner our local businesses can ramp back up.”

The Wolf Creek Dam project is the top dam safety project for the Corps in the nation and in July 2008, the Corps awarded a $341 million joint venture contract to Treviicos-Soletanche JV for the construction of a 4200-foot concrete barrier wall at the dam.  Treviicos-Soletanche has nearly completed the installation of a Protective Concrete Embankment Wall (PCEW), which is the first stage of barrier wall construction and which will increase dam safety during the remainder of construction. The Corps has finalized Barrier Wall Installation in several technique areas along the dam.  In late May, the Corps resumed work in Critical Area 1 with a revised construction method to address structural concerns in that specific area of the dam.

Once the President signs this legislation into law, over $522 million in federal funding will have been dedicated toward this project.

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents.  For more information visit www.halrogers.house.gov.

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