Myrtle Beach Beach Access Closed for Ocean Outfall Construction
In the heart of sunny Myrtle Beach, residents and visitors alike may have noticed a big change lately. If you’ve been to the beach this summer, you’ve probably seen the ongoing ocean outfall construction project that’s been making waves—literally! The City of Myrtle Beach recently shared that the 24th Avenue North ocean outfall project kicked off this week, and with it comes some significant changes.
What’s Happening?
As of Tuesday, the public beach access at 24th Avenue North is officially closed and will remain off-limits for the next two years. That’s right, you heard it correctly! So, if you usually stroll down that way for your beach day, you’ll need to find an alternative spot to soak up the sun.
City officials announced that a section of 24th Avenue North between Withers Drive and North Ocean Boulevard will also be closed, ensuring that everything stays safe and organized while construction crews work their magic. You can expect this section to stay under wraps until early 2026.
Why All This Fuss?
So, what’s this big construction project all about? Well, this isn’t just another construction hassle—it’s a major upgrade for Myrtle Beach’s infrastructure. The heart of the project is a huge 84-inch pipe that will stretch a whopping 1,500 feet into the ocean and sit beneath the sea floor. You might be wondering what that really means for our beautiful beach.
These ocean outfalls play a vital role in keeping our beach clean—forming the backbone of our stormwater management system. They help collect rainwater runoff, filter out trash, and prevent stormwater pipes from spilling onto the beach. Most importantly, this project will replace 11 stormwater pipes along the coast, making our ocean cleaner and safer for everyone to enjoy.
What’s the Cost?
With any big project comes significant funding, and this one is no different. The construction is expected to carry a hefty price tag of $42,639,830. As daunting as that number sounds, city officials are confident that the long-term benefits for our beloved beach will far outweigh the costs.
Looking Ahead
While the closures may be inconvenient, it’s essential to remember that we’re doing this for a cleaner and healthier beach environment. City officials have provided updates about other landmark dates during the construction, although keep in mind that these dates could shift as the project progresses, and everything falls into place.
Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on local announcements for the latest news. If you’re looking to catch a wave or relax on the sand, plan your beach visits based on the available accesses.
Final Thoughts
Yes, the next couple of years may mean some detours for beachgoers, but it’s all part of the plan to make Myrtle Beach a cleaner, more beautiful place. So, hang tight, stay positive, and let’s look forward to all the benefits this ocean outfall project will bring once it’s completed! In the meantime, let’s support our community—wave hello to the workers and remember that every challenge is a step towards progress.
