FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
Construction of a new spillway at the Brown's Lake Dam at Fort Eustis, Virginia, is scheduled to begin Feb. 1, 2016.
In cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pembroke Construction will construct the new spillway, designed to replace aging, 1950s-era infrastructure at the lake.
"Over the years, the spillway structure has been exposed to numerous storms causing minor and superficial damage, but over time it has taken its toll on the structure," said Bobby James, a civil engineer with the 733rd Civil Engineer Division's operations flight. "Tree roots have also played a part in doing damage to the structure. The spillway conduit has become disjointed, and this has caused a minor collapse in the earthen dam structure."
Workers will lower the water level in the 2.8-acre lake using pumps, then remove existing spillway structures and conduit without disturbing the lake bottom cap. The cap, installed in 1999, was designed to contain chemicals, such as pesticides, found in lake sediment in past surveys.
The new open-channel spillway will be complemented by a new culvert system beneath Service Road.
James explained, "there are no environmental impacts of the old spillway," nor will the upcoming project create any environmental concerns.
The two-month project, slated to cost approximately $381,000, will require the closure of Service Road adjacent to the lake for one month.
During periods of construction while Service Road remains open, 733rd CED officials recommend all personnel exercise extra caution in the vicinity of the construction area. Motorists should expect blocked lanes, temporary traffic control signs and other construction zone emplacements and equipment.