Dear Woodlake Community,
We are excited to share that we have successfully completed 95% of the lakebed clearing project, marking a significant milestone in our progress. This effort, which took approximately four months, was extensive but highly beneficial. Following the recommendations of our engineers, we took advantage of this time to clear the lakebed while awaiting the resumption of dam construction. With the lakebed remaining dry, we were able to complete the clearing through bush hogging, a more time-intensive and laborious process, but one that allowed us to avoid chemical treatments or controlled burns. However, a few areas remain inaccessible due to standing water and limited access for heavy machinery, particularly in smaller tributaries and some detailed clearing around docks and other obstacles was not feasible with the size of their equipment. We will continue to monitor regrowth closely to maintain the benefits of this effort and in the meantime, we encourage homeowners to address any areas near their docks or properties as needed. This will be an ongoing effort until the impoundment process begins.
While we have been conservative in providing dam construction updates over the last few months to ensure accuracy and avoid interfering with our pending flood insurance claim, substantial work has been taking place behind the scenes. Throughout this period, we remained focused on all productive efforts while navigating the complexities of storm-related damages and the ongoing flood insurance claim for Tropical Storm Debby. To maintain momentum, we prioritized independent work that could proceed without disrupting the damaged areas, including clearing and grubbing along the limits of disturbance, extensive lakebed clearing, and the 2–3-month installation of wave protection along the bank. These proactive steps ensured that progress continued despite broader delays in the reconstruction process.
We are pleased to report that our flood insurance claim has been approved, allowing us to move forward with the next steps in resuming construction. However, the unfortunate reality is that the storm erased all prior progress on the dam, essentially requiring us to start over. To further complicate matters, the insurance payout only partially covered the damages, leaving significant financial overages despite the substantial investment already made. While this is not the outcome we had anticipated, we remain fully committed to addressing these challenges proactively. We are actively working with the contractor to find a resolution, though it is now evident that they will not meet the contractually designated 18-month timeline. Nonetheless, we are focused on enforcing the terms of our agreement while identifying opportunities to recover lost time and keep the project moving forward efficiently.
The Woodlake community, and now ANC, is no stranger to adversity. It was storms and hurricanes that left us without a dam in the first place, and we refuse to let this latest delay deter us from our goal. We remain committed to seeing this project through and ensuring that all parties involved uphold their responsibilities to advance construction efficiently and effectively.
Looking ahead, we anticipate construction to resume within the next 60-90 days following the development and approval of a new water control plan. While the process of finalizing these critical elements has taken longer than anticipated, we are working diligently to ensure that all necessary plans and resources are in place to make substantial, visible progress at the site once again.
On February 10th, ANC received a formal certificate of approval from NCDEQ authorizing modifications to the construction schedule in light of the challenges outlined above. This approval ensures that there are no permitting concerns or conflicts with previously approved timelines. The site remains in a stable and secure condition, with Crane Creek flowing through the cofferdam opening without significant impoundment, thereby eliminating the risk of an uncontrolled release in the event of a major storm.
To enhance transparency and keep the community better informed, we are excited to introduce a Woodlake Developer’s Bulletin, launching this Spring. This monthly publication will provide regular updates on the dam, development progress, the Woodlake Country Club, and other community initiatives, allowing for more frequent and detailed communication beyond our traditional quarterly updates.
We sincerely appreciate your continued support and patience as we navigate these challenges. Woodlake is resilient, and with your dedication and support, we will achieve our shared vision for the future.
Sincerely,
ANC