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The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced the completion of the right-side stilling basin for the Bluestone Dam Phase 5 Project on March 2, 2026. This milestone improves the dam's ability to discharge water, benefiting 165,000 people downstream.

The project, which began with a safety evaluation in 1998, is now 63% complete and expected to finish by 2030, with a total investment of $960 million. The improvements will enhance flood risk management and support economic development in Southern West Virginia. The right-side stilling basin features reinforced concrete and an integrated drainage system to optimize dam function.