Land sought for Dawson Co. reservoir

DAWSONVILLE - The Etowah Water and Sewer Authority is trying to obtain 10,000 acres in Dawson County, owned by the city of Atlanta, for a reservoir.

Water and Sewer Authority General Manager Brooke Anderson says the authority hopes to form a partnership with a private company to fund the estimated $650 million cost of a reservoir, treatment plant and pipelines.

The project would be similar in scope to the Glades Reservoir, which is planned on 850 acres in northeastern Hall County. Officials are hoping to receive a withdrawal permit for 80 million gallons per day.

Atlanta officials say they're considering the reservoir, but they're also eyeing the property for a possible airport... an idea that has been tossed around for more than two decades, at least.