Governor Bredesen Visits Roane County Spill Site

HARRIMAN, Tenn. -- Governor Phil Bredesen visited Roane County today to review the progress of clean-up efforts at the site of the coal ash spill at TVA’s Kingston Fossil Plant. The Governor was joined by members of his Cabinet, including Environment and Conservation Commissioner Jim Fyke and Deputy Commissioner Paul Sloan, Health Commissioner Susan Cooper, and General James Bassham, Director of the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency.

 

“The initial response has been outstanding and we’re thankful no one was hurt, but now that the emergency response is completed we clearly have long-term issues to deal with,” said Bredesen. “My first concern is for the families that have been affected. My other chief concern is the lasting effects on the environment and ensuring the clean-up process is thorough and complete.”

 

Bredesen toured the site by air before receiving a briefing on the status of the clean-up operation from TVA and Roane County officials. Following a brief walking tour of the site, Bredesen met with members of two of the families affected by the spill.