Foxland Harbor Marina plans advance amid dredging concerns and public access debates

The City of Gallatin held a meeting on July 9, 2025, to discuss various topics, primarily focusing on the proposed marina project at Foxland Harbor. The meeting began with concerns about dredging and environmental impacts associated with the marina's construction. Participants raised questions about where dredged materials would be disposed of and the necessity of dredging for the marina's operation.

Bobby Reed, a consultant with extensive experience in local dredging projects, addressed these concerns by stating that the Corps of Engineers had conducted thorough testing and determined that the water depth at the proposed marina site was adequate, eliminating the need for dredging. Reed emphasized that the marina would not require any dredging, which he described as a moot point regarding environmental concerns.

The discussion then shifted to the marina's design and capacity. Reed clarified that there had been misconceptions about the number of slips planned for the marina. He referenced an earlier proposal from 2008 that included 380 slips, contrasting it with the current plan for 68 slips. Reed asserted that the current proposal aligns with the Corps' regulations and that no private marina would be permitted on O'Hiver Lake, addressing concerns about potential overdevelopment.

City officials and attendees debated the marina's impact on local traffic and water conditions. Reed reassured participants that the marina's operation would be seasonal, primarily active from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and that the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) would regulate boat traffic and speed limits in the area. He noted that the marina would include no-wake zones to mitigate rough water conditions.

The meeting also touched on parking arrangements for visitors to the marina. Concerns were raised about accommodating boat trailers and ensuring that parking did not interfere with local traffic. Reed confirmed that the marina would not allow trailer parking on-site, emphasizing that trailers should be removed after launching boats.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the complexities surrounding the marina project, including environmental considerations, community concerns, and regulatory frameworks. The discussions underscored the importance of clear communication between city officials, developers, and residents as the project moves forward. Further steps will involve continued dialogue and planning to address the community's needs and regulatory requirements.