Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Myrtle Beach Installs First Beach Matting for Accessibility

Beach matting for accessibility at Myrtle Beach

News Summary

Myrtle Beach has made significant strides in accessibility with the installation of its first beach matting at Springmaid Pier. Measuring 75 feet long, this matting allows individuals with mobility challenges to access the beach easily. Funded through community donations and supported by local organizations, the Adaptive Surf Project is partnering with Springmaid Pier to offer free beach wheelchairs to disabled visitors. Future plans aim to extend the matting to the high tide line and enhance accessibility further.

Myrtle Beach Gets Its First Beach Matting for Accessibility!

Hey there, Myrtle Beach! Exciting things are happening along our sandy shores as we make strides to become an even more welcoming place for everyone. Yes, you heard that right! The first-ever beach matting has been installed right by Springmaid Pier. This fantastic addition took place just this past Sunday evening and measures a whopping 75 feet long! Thanks to the hard work of the Adaptive Surf Project (ASP), those with mobility challenges can now enjoy the beach like never before.

Why Beach Matting Matters

It’s no secret that Myrtle Beach attracts around 20 million visitors annually. However, until now, the accessibility options for individuals using wheelchairs or motorized devices were minimal at best. There were only a few ADA-approved ramps and, believe it or not, no beach matting at all! With this new matting, we’re creating a path to sandy fun for many folks who previously had a tough time getting onto the beach.

A Community Effort

This project didn’t happen overnight. It was funded through generous donations and grants, with support from local organizations eager to break down barriers. Springmaid Pier worked diligently to secure the necessary permits to bring this vision to life, proving that when the community comes together, amazing things can happen!

Accessibility for Everyone

The installation of beach matting is more than just a nice addition; it’s a necessary feature for about 1,000 people who require beach wheelchairs every summer here in Myrtle Beach. Thankfully, ASP has partnered with Springmaid Pier to offer free beach wheelchairs for disabled visitors, making a day at the beach accessible and fun for all!

Future Plans in the Works

But wait, there’s more! ASP isn’t stopping at just one beach mat. They are actively seeking additional permits to extend the matting all the way to the high tide line, making it even easier for individuals with mobility challenges to enjoy the water. Talk about making waves in the accessibility department!

Calling for Volunteers

community volunteers to help with wheelchair delivery. It’s a great way to give back, and organizations such as churches and civic groups are encouraged to pitch in. If you’re interested in lending a hand, just reach out to ASP through their website or social media pages!

More Accessibility Updates in the Area

North Myrtle Beach has completed a new wooden walkover at the 62nd Avenue North beach access. This is going to make a significant difference for beachgoers looking for easier access. Plus, there are plans to add more accessible features to the parking lot, such as a concrete pad and two upright showers specifically designed for handicap accessibility.

And if that’s not enough to get you excited, there’s a new wooden walkover in the works for the 1st Avenue South beach access, expected to be ready within the next two weeks!

The Future Looks Bright!

So there you have it, Myrtle Beach residents and visitors! With the new beach matting and ongoing projects, our beautiful stretch of sand is becoming more accessible to everyone. It’s heartwarming to see our community come together to create a friendly and inclusive beach experience. As we continue to embrace these changes, let’s look forward to sunny days ahead for all!