Myrtle Beach Welcomes New Ocean Outfall to Enhance Water Quality

Myrtle Beach Welcomes New Ocean Outfall to Enhance Water Quality

Myrtle Beach, S.C. is buzzing with excitement as the city gears up for the construction of a brand new ocean outfall at 24th Avenue North. This initiative is not just another construction project; it’s a big step towards improving our lovely beach and preserving the beauty of our ocean waters. The announcement was made through a friendly Facebook post by the Myrtle Beach City Government, highlighting the numerous benefits of the new outfall and stormwater pipes.

Why Ocean Outfalls Are Important

So, what’s the deal with ocean outfalls, you may ask? Well, these crucial systems serve multiple purposes! First and foremost, they help to filter out sediment — that sandy stuff and debris that can muddy our waters. They also play a vital role in enhancing water quality by preventing pollution from reaching the ocean. And let’s not forget about trash! Ocean outfalls are designed to catch rubbish and other unwanted items, keeping our beautiful beaches clean and inviting. This new project will replace 11 existing stormwater pipes currently on the beach, making it a necessary upgrade.

When Will Construction Start?

Mark your calendars! Construction is set to kick off this Monday, and we’re all eager to see the progress unfold. The first step will involve building a long trestle that will stretch an impressive 1,500 feet out to sea. A crane will then make use of the sturdy ocean floor to get busy installing the large concrete pipe that will be part of the outfall structure. You can expect to see a lot of activity along the shore!

A Timeline for the Construction

According to the plans, beach construction is slated to officially begin on September 10. This is when the first trestle pipes are expected to be installed. And for those concerned about accessibility, an emergency beach access will be set up at the construction site by January 1 to ensure our first responders have quick access when they need it most.

Construction Hours and Community Impact

The hardworking crews will be out there from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. While there might be some disturbances due to noise or equipment, the long-term benefits for the community and the environment are well worth it. We’ll be seeing this outfall standing tall as the fifth ocean outfall in Myrtle Beach, joining the ranks of four others located at 25th Avenue South, Fourth Avenue North, 14th Avenue North, and 53rd Avenue North.

A Bright Future Ahead

The entire project is anticipated to take a few years, with completion expected by early 2026. As we navigate through the construction phase, let’s stay positive and remind ourselves of the beautiful beaches and clearer waters that await us once this project wraps up. For those who love spending time at the beach, it’s an exciting time to be living in Myrtle Beach!

Keep your eyes peeled for updates as the project progresses. With every pipe laid and every day that passes, Myrtle Beach moves one step closer to enhanced environmental protection and a cleaner ocean. Cheers to a better tomorrow for our beloved beaches!