Beaufort Prepares for the Shrimp Festival with New Mooring Pilings
BEAUFORT – The beautiful Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort is buzzing with excitement as preparations for the annual Beaufort Shrimp Festival kick into high gear! Last week, O’Quinn Marine Construction, hired by the city, installed eight new pilings that will provide the perfect spot for shrimp boats to dock during the lively festivities on October 4-5.
A Thoughtful Investment
This addition has been in the works for quite some time. City Manager Scott Marshall shared that discussions about the pilings had been ongoing among city staff. They thoroughly researched the project’s cost and feasibility, concluding that it was a smart investment for the community. “We decided it was a good investment, especially since those pilings will stay until after the park is repaired,” Marshall said, highlighting the benefits for the upcoming festival and beyond.
Quick Action for Festival Readiness
With the festival just around the corner, timing was critical. Marshall noted that the pilings had to be installed quickly to allow for the shrimp boats’ arrival. “O’Quinn needed to know in order to get started. They had other upcoming projects… we needed to go ahead and pull the trigger if we were going to do it and have it finished in time for the Shrimp Festival,” he explained. And that’s exactly what they did!
What You Should Know About the Pilings
According to a city news release, these eight pilings will be installed just six inches from the seawall and will stretch over a span of 150 feet. This smart design ensures that the shrimp boats can dock without putting any stress on the relieving platform that supports Waterfront Park. It’s important to note that these pilings are a temporary solution specifically meant for festival parking; they are not intended for use by cruise ships.
Installation Completed in Record Time
The installation process kicked off on September 19 and was wrapped up just one day later! The quick turnaround means that everything is on track for the festival, which promises to be a delightful celebration of the community’s famous shrimping industry.
Looking Ahead
As the city gears up for the Beaufort Shrimp Festival, excitement is palpable. This event not only highlights the local shrimping culture but also brings together residents and visitors alike for a weekend of food, fun, and community spirit. The new pilings will enable the shrimp boats to be a part of the action, just as they have been in past festivals.
The city encourages local shrimpers to take advantage of this opportunity and reminds everyone to mark their calendars for what promises to be another fantastic festival. With the pilings in place, the city is hopeful that the boats will enhance the festive atmosphere, showcasing the importance of shrimping to Beaufort.
So, get ready, Beaufort! The Shrimp Festival is just around the corner, and these new pilings are a testament to the city’s commitment to celebrating its rich maritime culture. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this festival is sure to be a highlight of the fall season!
