Large scale dam removals present opportunities to improve natural habitats, restore connectivity, and improve overall ecosystem integrity. The Elba Hydroelectric Dam Project (EHDP) is a multi-agency effort to restore connectivity to the Pea River in southeast AL through the removal of a damaged and decommissioned dam. This project will alleviate river hazards, restore connectivity and improve habitat for fishes and mussels, including federally threatened/endangered species (Gulf Sturgeon, Southern Kidneyshell). Additionally, this project provides an opportunity to improve environmental connection and social discourse within the Elba community and the broader Wiregrass region of southeast AL. This emphasizes the river as a community resource for conservation, recreation, and education. EHDP focuses on evaluating the effects of dam removal on macroinvertebrate and mussel populations and associated habitat before and after dam removal, while engaging local communities to promote understanding and support for the project. Biological assessments include targeted mussel surveys, macroinvertebrate sampling, and habitat characterization along an ~11km reach above and below the existing Elba Dam pre- and post-removal. Outreach efforts include a combination of public events and an environmental education program (Deep South Student Leadership and Environmental Action Program [LEAP]) involving local schools to implement beneficial, place-based environmental projects to engage and facilitate knowledge transfer to the community. Dam removal is scheduled for Spring 2026 while monitoring and outreach continue. Initial mussel and habitat surveys reveal an effective absence of mollusks and marginal habitat quality in 10 representative reaches along the broader ~11km study reach around the EHDP. Preliminary outreach efforts suggest public interest and support for EHDP, including new school additions to LEAP for spring 2026. By sharing these results, we aim to foster discussion, solicit expertise, and build partnerships to enhance the success of this project and serve as a model for future watershed restoration efforts.