Construction on Buckeye Lake Dam Continues to Effect Surrounding Businesses

Construction on Buckeye Lake Dam continues to effect local businesses. But, one company is staying optimistic.

Construction crews are in phase 1 for the redevelopment at Buckeye Lake, according to the Ohio State Parks official website. As of January 1st the project increased to two shifts per day, with it’s workers working six days a week, for 20 hours a day. Owner of Buckeye Lake Winery, Tracy Higginbotham said although his business was hit hard from the construction last year, he is hopeful to see better results for the up coming summer months.

“We were down 54 percent this summer over last summer so events like the Polar Bear Plunge is great, it’s crucial. But, we’re focusing forward, I know the state is working really hard and i’m pretty optimistic that we’re going to have water in the lake next year,” said Higginbotham.

Higginbotham said hosting events like the Polar Bear plunge proves how supportive their community is to the local businesses.

“The community has been great. We lost got hit in the nose from a financial perspective last summer but, frankly our winter business has been growing, so it’s good it’s positive,” said Higginbotham.

To follow the progress of the Buckeye Lake Dam visit parks.ohiodnr.gov/buckeyelake.