TVA takes over operations, limited opening possible
Fontana Dam – The rumor mill is not ready to completely stop turning, but the wind surrounding it has certainly died down.
The owners of Fontana Village Resort & Marina opted in a June 1 meeting with the Tennessee Valley Authority to surrender its lease back to the TVA. A press release issued Friday directed the blame at the COVID-19 pandemic.
Graham County’s Emergency Management Coordination Committee voted March 23 to close all accommodations within its borders. The closure was lifted May 9, but the popular destination never resumed operations.
“This was a difficult decision for them (the owners) to make, but due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic and the loss of a big part of the 2020 season, they have decided not to continue the lease on the property,” the release reads.
The Graham Star later learned that not only were several resort employees placed on TVA payroll in the immediate aftermath, but the conglomerate is exploring the option of resuming all Fontana Village Resort operations.
There is no word on what the TVA plans to do with booked reservations. The only part of the operation that has a definitive outlook is the marina, which will still operate seven days a week from, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.