CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – Mayor Kim McMillan’s office announced Wednesday that the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has approved funds to repair the spillway/dam at Dunbar Cave State Park.
Swan Lake, once a popular fishing spot at Dunbar Cave, has been dry for several months while officials waited for word on repairs. Tall grass and other vegetation have taken over the lake bed.

“For some time, we’ve been working with the state to determine who could best address the issues at Swan Lake. Since it is located on State Park grounds, TDEC has taken the lead and has now received the funding necessary to make the repairs,” explained Mayor McMillan. “I am very appreciative of the persistence and work by the TDEC staff to make these needed repairs.”
According to TDEC, the design process may be lengthy because of the necessary investigation and research required to ensure the long-term safety of the dam. An official timeline has not been completed.
After the design phase is complete, the state will begin the bid process to retain a contractor, according to the Mayor’s Office. The Tennessee Department of General Services will direct the process throughout completion of the repairs.
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