Town of Highlands initiates Mirror Lake dredging project with McGill Associates

In the heart of Highlands, North Carolina, the Town of Highlands Special Board of Commissioners convened on April 8, 2025, to discuss a significant development project that promises to enhance the community's cherished Mirror Lake. As the meeting unfolded, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, particularly surrounding the dredging initiative aimed at revitalizing the lake.

The town has secured a substantial budget of $5 million, which is now in safe deposits, ready to be utilized for the project. This funding is crucial as it allows the town to move forward with the first phase of dredging near the bridge, a task that has already commenced with the presence of heavy machinery on-site. Local officials, including Pat Gleeson and Mike King, have been actively collaborating with the improvement association to ensure the project’s success.

A key component of this initiative involved hiring McGill Associates to conduct an engineering study, ensuring that all state procurement and technical specifications are met. The engineering firm, with a long-standing history in the region, has completed its report, which was reviewed by the town's public works director, Lamar Nicks. His thorough examination confirmed the report's completeness, paving the way for the next steps in the project.

During the meeting, Joel Storro, a principal at McGill Associates, and his colleague Mike Hanson presented their findings to the board and community members. Storro expressed pride in the project, noting its significance to the town and the long-standing discussions surrounding it. He emphasized the importance of leveraging available funding to make a meaningful impact on the lake's health and accessibility.

As the presentation concluded, the floor opened for questions, inviting community engagement and input on the project’s future direction. This collaborative spirit highlighted the town's commitment to transparency and inclusivity in decision-making processes.

The dredging project at Mirror Lake stands as a testament to the town's dedication to enhancing its natural resources and fostering community well-being. As the initiative progresses, residents can look forward to a revitalized lake that not only beautifies their surroundings but also enriches their quality of life.