Erwin Utilities CEO updates public on restoration efforts

ERWIN, Tenn. (WJHL) — Erwin Utilities CEO Lee Brown provided an update on the company’s restoration efforts to residents in Unicoi County on Tuesday evening.

Brown said great progress has been made on power restoration efforts.

“We hope this week that everyone that can receive power will have that,” Brown said in a video posted to social media.

Lee said crews encountered some unexpected delays due to low communication lines on N Main Ave. after a delivery truck caught those lines and broke three poles before he could get stopped. All of those poles had to be replaced.

Brown reported that water has been restored to all customers, and anyone still without water should call the utility’s office ASAP, at 423-743-1820. Brown added the water system is stable.

Brown said the wastewater treatment plant is the biggest need. It is still inoperable, and crews have been in contact with FEMA and TEMA to find a temporary solution. He said permanent solutions to wastewater treatment could take years.

Lee said additional contractors are in the area working to restore fiber to customers over the next several days. Brown was happy to add that on Oct. 16, new installs of fiber will continue for those with prior installation appointments.

Lee said there is a lot of unknown surrounding the Industrial Park area. Power, water, wastewater, fiber and gas lines have all washed out. Lee said it would take some time before there are solutions for that area.

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