Corps Of Engineers Ruling On Joe Pool Dam Concerns Residents
GRAND PRAIRIE (CBSDFW.COM) – The results of a safety analysis on the Joe Pool Dam by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have nearby residents concerned for their safety.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Tuesday that a safety analysis classified the Joe Pool Dam as having moderate to high risk for embankment slope stability and erosion issues.
The analysis said consequences of those issues could result in loss of lives and property damage.
Rosemary Reed is a long time Grand Prairie resident whose neighborhood backs up to the Joe Pool Dam.
"They use strong words for a reason to get somebody's attention," said Reed. "We are all very concerned because we are going to be the first ones impacted by damage from the dam."
But Brian Phelps with the Corps of Engineers said the dam is functioning properly with no problems and there are no plans to change operations in any way.
According to Phelps, the classification was given simply because of the Corps' high standards; the dam's potential for erosion issues and its proximity to homes and businesses.
"This lake being upstream of urban areas, the potential for consequences is going to be higher," Phelps said.
The explanation did not assure residents who say the longevity of the 21-year-old dam concerns them, especially considering recent rains.
"I'm very concerned I mean I want to know we all want to know. We have investments here we have our lives here," Reed said.
Phelps maintains the dam is inspected annually and maintenance issues are addressed quickly.
"Life safety is the number one priority for the Army Corps of Engineers," Phelps said.
The Corps will add more instruments to evaluate the dam's stability, erosion potential and water pressure.
