75% of Double Oak Lake volume removed for $70,000 infrastructure repairs

Alabama’s largest state park is undergoing major infrastructure repairs to its most popular lake. Crews have begun lowering the water level at Double Oak Lake to address decades of wear on the marina and beach facilities. The project is a joint effort between the state park and Shelby County.

The park was established in 1927 under the Alabama State Lands Act. It began as a 940-acre property atop Double Oak Mountain. Over the century, the land expanded to 11,861 acres. Double Oak Lake serves as the primary body of water for visitors and is currently the most used lake in the system. Many components of the marina date back to the 1970s.

The decision to perform work during the off-season allows for lower water levels without disrupting summer visitor access. Officials stated that falling water levels make it easier to inspect underwater structures. The process began in the fall to coincide with cooler temperatures and drier weather conditions. A recent hurricane delayed the initial draining phase, but the project is now back on schedule.

Larry Warren, the central district superintendent with Alabama State Parks, confirmed that crews are using a 14-inch siphon pipe to remove water. The lake level will drop by approximately 12 feet. This reduction shrinks the lake's volume by about 75%. Gauntt noted that the remaining depth is sufficient to sustain fish populations, while cooler air temperatures help maintain necessary oxygen levels in the water.

Specific repairs include reinforcing multiple concrete boat ramps that have eroded over time. Workers will also replace piers at the boat rental section of the lake. The beach area is receiving new sand and a permanent boundary marker for the swimming zone. The current floating marker is being replaced with a fixed structure to improve swimmer safety. Trey Gauntt, the county’s chief facilities management officer, said the pier at Oak Mountain Marina has already been removed for replacement.

The total cost of the renovations is approximately $70,000. Shelby County is covering roughly half of the expense. Lindsey Allison, the Shelby County commissioner for District 7, stated that the county aims to keep the park updated for visitors from across the state. The district covers most of the park's territory. Allison noted that the partnership allows for flexible scheduling and shared responsibility for maintenance.

Warren said the county’s support is essential for implementing much-needed improvements. He emphasized that the collaboration helps maintain the park as a popular destination. Gauntt predicted that the work will be fully completed by spring and summer of 2027. Visitors will likely not see major visible changes to the beach surface, but the new boundary markers and repaired ramps will enhance usability and safety.

The project relies on the specific timing of the autumn season to minimize ecological impact. The draining process exposes the lakebed for inspection, allowing staff to identify any additional repairs needed below the surface. The goal is to restore functionality to facilities that have not been upgraded in decades. The final phase of the project will conclude before the next peak tourist season.