NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — An extensive recovery is underway to restore communications and rebuild after the deadly December tornado outbreak damaged the area surrounding the Old Hickory Dam.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nashville District officials reported as the tornado passed over the area on Dec. 9, 2023, it damaged the exterior of the hydropower plant, tore the roof off the Electronic Service Section Building on the shoreline of Old Hickory Lake and then demolished several picnic shelters and uprooted a slew of hardwood trees at Rockland Recreation Area, according to a release.
Rockland Recreation Area to remain closed for next several months after tornado
“Approximately 80% of the area took a direct hit and 50% or more of its trees are on the ground,” said Dylon Anderson, Old Hickory Lake resource manager. “Two shelters are a complete loss, and another large shelter is severely damaged. Network and electrical outages are still ongoing as well.”
Power Plant Road and the Rockland Recreation Area on the shoreline of Old Hickory Lake will remain closed to the public due to the extent of damage and devastation. The nature trail and tailwater access area also took a direct hit, which caused damage to signage, the boardwalk and portions of asphalt.