Eye-widening Repair Project on the line for Beaufort’s Waterfront Park
There’s a bucketload of charm in the city of Beaufort, South Carolina. Its true gem though is the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, the crown jewel as it is fondly referred to by locals and visitors. Recent reports sound some alarm bells. The park bubbles under the surface with troubles which could cost a hefty fortune—exactly what kind of figure are we talking about? Well, how does multi-million dollar repair sound?
The Hidden Damage: What’s Going On?
This classic park sprang to existence back in 1975. Yet, although its appeal thrives unaffected surface-level, the scene underneath seems to be quite a different story. No, it’s not about to plop into the water, as some concerned folks might be wondering. But there are some serious issues brewing.
Underneath the park lies a support system, resting on some 570 pilings. These pilings are pretty much like stilts, keeping structures above water level. A check-up by divers in 2019 showed around 47 of these pilings dangerously compromised. This ‘failing’ situation can mean anything from concrete deterioration, rusting, or protrusion of the inner rebar affecting the structure.
Fast forward to a more recent check-up, where the news wasn’t any better. Pilings that were square-shaped and 18-inches around have now reduced to a round 12 inches. On top of this, the cruise line company, American Cruise Lines, was asked to stay away due to increasing concerns.
The Invisible Worry: Shoaling and Pilings
An even bigger worry lies in what can’t be properly inspected anymore due to shoaling. The original count of 570 foundational pilings has reduced to a visible inspection of just 227. The problem of shoaling won’t be going away anytime soon, hinting at the need for a more thorough long-term solution.
Fix and the Monstrous Cost
You might be asking, “ok, but what’s the cost of fixing up the issue?” Well, the estimated figures are quite sizable. Scott Marshall, Beaufort City Manager, guesstimates a potential cost of approximately 100 million dollars. It’s evident that the time has come for some hired expertise to dive in and give a definitive cost and solution.
A request for qualifications has gone out, inviting marine engineers to help figure out the situation. Once a firm gets the nod, further investigation goes underway about what exactly needs to be fixed, and how much that will cost.
Crises like these often generate rays of hope, too. In a move to ease the financial burden, the cruise line has hinted at lending a helping hand as its boats can dock and disembark passengers conveniently in Beaufort. The local, state and federal leaders are expected to rally around as well. After all, the significance of Chambers Park both for the local and state economy is paramount.
While plans of action are being worked out, the city continues to invest in smaller repair projects across the park, with more than $8 million spent on renovations since 2005. Inspections will also be ramped up, and efforts will be dedicated to secure funding for replacing the structure itself. As for now, no exact deadlines have been set in stone as the city navigates through this hard-hitting situation.
