17-02-2025
AEP announces limited access at Joshua Falls while site assessed for SMRs
CAMPBELL COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) – Starting in March, Appalachian Power crews will begin work at the company-owned Joshua Falls property causing limited access to the boat ramp and parking lot for residents.
Access to the boat ramp and parking lot will be limited to ensure the safety of the workers and residents. The ramp is 9 miles downstream from downtown Lynchburg and along the James River.
Temporary closures will take place, however, due to weather, some closures may not be scheduled but will be managed by onsite traffic control with other safety measures.
Crews are making efforts to open the parking lot and boat ramp on the weekends with reduced parking during the week.
Tree removal and access road construction will take place along with installing a meteorological tower and taking water and soil samples, which will be throughout this year.
AEP crews restore 95% of customers in SW and Central Virginia
'We understand how important this boat ramp is to the public and surrounding communities,' said George Porter, Appalachian Power spokesperson. 'We will continue to work with all stakeholders to find the ideal solution that ensures safety for crews and recreational users of the James River.'
The work is a part of the Appalachian Power's Early Site Permit (ESP) application process to evaluate if Joshua Falls is a suitable location for a Small Modular Reactor (SMR).
The property is owned by Appalachian's Power parent company, American Electric Power (AEP), and is managed by Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR).
Appalachian Power's use of the SMR is an estimated decade away from permitting and regulating safe and reliable facilities to use SMRs as a suitable future energy resource.
Appalachian Power is working with state regulators, stakeholders, and leaders to meet the goals of the growing energy needs and policies.
For more information about the SMR plans in Virginia click here. To see the closures and updates to the boat ramp access click here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
