Sep 2 2015
On Aug. 31, the Edwin I. Hatch Nuclear Plant held a groundbreaking for the construction of the Plant Hatch Energy Education Center. Construction of the new center is expected to be completed by the end of June 2016.
Leaders from Plant Hatch and J.M. Miles Construction break ground for the new site energy education center. Construction is scheduled to be completed in June 2016.
The Plant Hatch Energy Education Center will serve as a multipurpose facility and visitor's center for site and community functions. New and innovative exhibitions will help educate visitors on safe, clean, affordable and reliable nuclear energy.
"We're excited about our new energy education center and the enhancements it will bring to our public outreach program," said David Vineyard, Site Vice President. "This investment will help us better educate future generations on the benefits of nuclear energy as well as career opportunities at Plant Hatch."
The Plant Hatch Energy Education Center is replacing the Plant Hatch Visitor's Center, which was recently demolished to make way for the new facility. The Visitor's Center opened on Aug. 20, 1971, and U. S. President Jimmy Carter, then Georgia's governor, was in attendance and led the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
"It was a sad day when our old building was demolished, but today was a good day for new opportunities," said Pamela Mays, Hatch Communications Coordinator. "We are happy to get construction underway for our energy education center and are looking forward to its completion."
Plant Hatch averages 3,500 visitors annually. Since opening its doors for visitors, the site has hosted more than half a million people including local school children.
While the Plant Hatch Energy Education Center is under construction, tours are being conducted on a limited basis. To schedule a tour, contact Pamela Mays at 800-722-7774.