Roane County Executive, Wade Creswell, recently had the privilege of joining more than 50 community members, stakeholders, and fellow officials on an insightful guided tour of the ongoing construction of the Environmental Management Disposal Facility (EMDF) in Oak Ridge. Hosted by the Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management (OREM) and their contractor UCOR, this tour provided a comprehensive look into a project crucial for our community’s future.
The EMDF is an essential infrastructure piece designed to provide the waste disposal capacity necessary for OREM to complete the cleanup at the Y-12 National Security Complex and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. This project not only represents a significant step forward in environmental management but also showcases the dedication and hard work of many individuals committed to maintaining the health and safety of our environment.
During the tour, attendees traversed the construction site on rerouted roads, a testament to the early site preparations completed back in May. These new routes signify the progress made and the meticulous planning involved in accommodating the new facility. It was truly impressive to see the scale of the project firsthand.
Jay Mullis, OREM Manager, addressed the group, emphasizing the importance of the EMDF and OREM’s dedication to community outreach and education. His words resonated with Roane County Executive, Wade Creswell, highlighting how critical it is for projects of this magnitude to maintain transparency and actively involve the community.
One of the standout moments was learning that the first phase of the project was completed $10 million under budget and six months ahead of schedule. This achievement reflects the efficiency and dedication of everyone involved.
As the group stood on the footprint of the EMDF, experts from OREM and UCOR provided in-depth information about the project. This session allowed attendees to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the facility’s construction and its future impact. The collaborative effort of leadership and representatives from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation was evident, showcasing a unified commitment to the project’s success.
Currently, work is progressing on the second phase, known as the groundwater field demonstration. This phase aims to understand how groundwater levels adjust following the landfill’s construction, with fieldwork beginning in February and groundwater monitoring scheduled to start in December. The data collected will be crucial in finalizing the design of the landfill’s bottom elevation.
The EMDF is slated for completion in 2030, and we are confident it will be a cornerstone in our community’s environmental management efforts. This tour was a valuable opportunity to witness the progress and dedication of those working tirelessly on this project. We look forward to seeing the continued advancements and the positive impact the EMDF will have on our community.
Stay tuned for more updates on this vital project. Together, we are building a cleaner, safer future for Roane County and beyond.
*Photos by Department of Energy – Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management