Many lake users testified in opposition to the construction of the Parcel 3 berm which is now nearing completion. Citizens believed – and still believe – the berm’s construction was premature because considerations about expanding the lake’s life line – the flushing channel, built on land donated by ALCOA and paid for with $17 million in taxpayer funds as part of the 1983 lake restoration project – was important to assess prior to building the berm.
At the time, a Port commissioner (Jerry Oliver) and staff said if the berm needs to be removed at some future because channel adjustments are needed, that would be considered.
“In the long term, if the flushing channel is part of a solution for the lake — and it might take years to figure that out — the berm is a mound of earth and vegetation,” she said. “If that’s something it comes down to it can be moved.” Port spokeswoman Abbi Russell, 2018.
