July 20, 2007
Swinging Bridge Reservoir to Reopen For Public Use This Saturday
Monticello -- Alliance Energy Renewables, LLC, the company that owns the Swinging Bridge Reservoir, announced it will open it for all recreational uses on Saturday, July 21. The reservoir was first closed to all uses in May 2005 by former owner Mirant following serious damage to the Swinging Bridge dam.
Alliance Renewables acquired the former Mirant assets in May 2007 and completed the balance of the dam repairs and restoration of the lake. The company warned the community that the reservoir water level remains relatively low and that underwater hazards may have shifted during the repair period. Reservoir users are also advised to respect all barriers and keep away from the dam and spillway.
"Swinging Bridge is the largest lake in Sullivan County," Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther said. "Its absence left local businesses and homeowners in the lurch. That's why it was so important to put pressure on Mirant to either rectify the situation or sell the dam. I am heartened that as the new owner, Alliance Energy has demonstrated corporate responsibility by restoring water levels in time for this summer's tourist season."
Swinging Bridge was slowly refilling when this photo was taken in May