Wake Forest Reservoir Improvements Project set to begin

Member for

7 years 9 months
November 4, 2026

WAKE FOREST, NC – Zachry Construction, a contractor working on behalf of the Town of Wake Forest, will close access to the Wake Forest Reservoir on Monday, Nov. 9. The temporary closure is necessary to allow crews to begin preparing for a series of improvements to the reservoir dam and associated infrastructure, including the dam embankment, spillway, and outlet structure, to enhance the reservoir’s long-term safety, reliability, and resilience. 

The project will occur in three phases:

  1. Controlled Lake Drawdown
    During the week of November 9, the Town will begin the controlled drawdown of the reservoir. The lake level will be lowered gradually over several weeks to provide safe access for construction. The timing and rate of drawdown may be adjusted based on weather, site conditions, and construction requirements.
     
  2. Active Construction
    Once the appropriate water level is reached, construction activities will commence to include dam improvements, spillway and outlet structure work, earthwork, demolition, and related site improvements. Construction crews, equipment, and vehicles will be present within designated project areas.
     
  3. Natural Refill
    Following completion of the necessary work and authorization to restore the reservoir, the lake will be allowed to refill naturally. The timing and rate of refill will depend on rainfall, weather conditions, and overall reservoir conditions.

During the drawdown and construction phases, community members and visitors may notice:

  • Receding shorelines and exposed areas of the lakebed. 
  • Temporary changes to the appearance and use of the reservoir. 
  • Restrictions or closures affecting boating, fishing, and other recreational activities.  
  • Temporary odors associated with exposed lake sediments. 
  • Increased construction activity, equipment, and vehicle traffic in and around the project area. 
  • Potential impacts to fish and aquatic wildlife. Fish populations and aquatic habitat may take time to rebound following completion of the project. 

Community members, visitors, and pets are urged to stay out of all active construction areas and not enter exposed portions of the lakebed, dam, spillway, or other restricted areas. Exposed lakebeds may contain deep mud, unstable soils, steep slopes, and other hazards. Water levels and flows may also change without notice. 

Do not attempt to access or cross the dam, spillway, or construction areas. Follow all posted signs, barricades, and instructions from Town personnel and contractors.

Additional information regarding construction activities, recreational restrictions, and the eventual reservoir refill will be provided as the project progresses.

The Town appreciates the community's patience and cooperation during this important project. The improvements represent a significant investment in dam safety, infrastructure resilience, and long-term public safety, while supporting the future restoration of recreational opportunities at the reservoir. For more information, email CIP Manager Steve Meyer at smeyer@wakeforestnc.gov.