1. United States
2. Letter

Thank you for your work investing in America’s infrastructure and passing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The funds for electric vehicles, public transit, and resilient transportation networks are critical steps forward, benefiting communities across the country, including Tennessee. However, it’s a dam shame that one of our most urgent threats is still unaddressed: Tennessee’s aging dams and flood control systems. We have 1,300 dams in the state—many over 50 years old—on the brink of failure. Dams like Boone, Watts Bar, and Fort Loudoun were built to provide flood control and energy but were not designed to handle today’s extreme weather. The Waverly Flood: A Tragic Reminder In August 2021, Waverly was devastated when 17 inches of rain in just 24 hours caused Trace Creek to overflow, taking 20 lives and causing over $100 million in damages. The flooding was worsened by CSX’s railroad, where failure to act on repeated flood warnings made the situation worse. East Tennessee: Another Warning Hurricane Helene left many dead, homeless and stranded in East Tennessee, with homes destroyed and communities cut off. At Sycamore Shoals Hospital in Elizabethton, 39 patients had to be rescued from the roof as floodwaters rose. More Action is Needed Your administration has made great strides, but it’s a dam shame we’re not doing more to secure our dams and flood controls. These aren’t just engineering projects—they’re lifelines protecting homes and lives. While the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has helped improve many of our highways, most of them don’t need expansion. What we need is to maintain our roads, invest in public transit, and ensure we’re addressing climate change by reducing emissions. And just as importantly, we must fix the dams that protect communities from the increasing threat of floods. We also need stronger corporate accountability. Companies like CSX benefit from Tennessee’s infrastructure and must be held responsible for community safety. Their failures in Waverly worsened the tragedy. Telecommunication companies must also be held accountable, as communication failures during floods leave people without help. Call to Action Your leadership gives hope, but more must be done. Fix the dams. Expand public transit. Hold corporations accountable. Ensure flood protection is prioritized alongside roads and bridges. The next flood could come at any moment. It’s a dam shame we’ve let it get this bad, but it’s not too late to act. Thank you again for your leadership in building a safer, more resilient America.