TVA seeks community input to possibly adding natural gas turbines ... - FOX13 Memphis

TVA seeks community input to possibly adding natural gas turbines to Allen Reservation | News | fox13memphis.com

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - To expand or not to expand?

That’s the question Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) asked South Memphis residents on Tuesday during a public meeting to discuss possibly adding to its Allen Reservation.

We’ve told you about our Contaminated Community series, taking a look at water and air pollution specifically in South Memphis neighborhoods – and that pollution is still a concern.

The plan is to add natural gas turbines to what already exists at the TVA Allen reservation. On Tuesday, people got a chance to see the plant for themselves, ask questions, and voice their concerns.

“I’m always interested in what's better for our community as being a resident, as well as being a founder of a nonprofit here,” said Dedra Macklin, an Indian Hills resident.

“We had winter storms in Memphis last year that our power grid, frankly, failed to counteract,” said community activist Richard Massey.

The proposed plan – natural gas turbines that would turn on as needed, in severe weather situations when the power grid is the most vulnerable.

People in attendance at the public meeting had a chance to ask questions.

“How will this benefit our community and how has technology changed to the point where they made the decision to make a change?,” said Massey.

One of the biggest concerns presented was the possible pollution that could come with this project if approved.

A TVA spokesperson says pollution of water, air, and wildlife will be taken into account as part of its environmental study.

“It's always a concern because we have wetlands over here. We have ponds and lakes over here is so beautiful over here, we have some of the most beautiful land in the city. And so we want to preserve that,” said Macklin.

Massey added, “They (TVA) are producing harmful emissions, harmful pollutants detrimental to south Memphians reproductive health, respiratory health, contributing to skin disease, of course, the health of children.”

The next public meeting will be in November.

It will be virtual.
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