Water OKd for RiverPark on weekends, holidays

Published 10:14 am Thursday, July 13, 2017

When the rubber ducks are dumped into the South Yadkin River at RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls – The Bullhole on Saturday, expect water to be flowing over the dam.

County commissioners on Monday night adopted an agreement with South Yadkin Power that will provide water over all parts of the dam on weekends and holidays during the warmer months. It will also allow the company use of the dam to produce electricity.

In the  case of an extreme drought or act of God which prevented water from reaching the dam, the agreement would not be in effect.

The agreement was the conclusion of months of negotiations between the county, Town of Cooleemee, RiverPark and the Davie Chamber of Commerce.

“This language insures the intent both parties have discussed,” said County Manager John Eller. “No one understands how much time and effort have gone into this. We’re very happy with where we are, trying to get to Phase II of the RiverPark.”

“We leave our history behind us and look forward to open communications and trust,” said Carolyn McManamy, president of the chamber.

She said the development of the old mill site by Breck Bullock and family, as well as park expansion, coiuld be an economic and lifestyle boost for Cooleemee.

County Commissioner Dan Barrett said he is pleased with the resolution that could move all forward in a positive way. “The behind-the-scenes discussions were awesome,” he said.

County Commissioner Mark Jones said he likes the vision for the area. “A lot of things can happen at RiverPark,” he said.

In the past, RiverPark and the power company butted heads over the water flow. The power company diverts water from the dam into a spillway, which powers turbines to produce electricity.