Big Changes Coming to North Myrtle Beach with New $7.8 Million Drainage Project

Big Changes Coming to North Myrtle Beach with New Drainage Project

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Exciting developments are underway in the beautiful coastal community of North Myrtle Beach! A brand new drainage project is set to tackle some long-standing flooding issues, especially around the bustling Cherry Grove area. If you’ve ever been caught in a stormy downpour while trying to enjoy a sunny beach day, you’ll appreciate what’s coming!

Investing in the Future

The city has pinned down a whopping $7.8 million for this essential project, and lucky for them, most of this cost is being padded by federal funds from the COVID relief era. That means the local government is only dipping into its own pockets for around $230,000. Every little bit helps when it comes to maintaining that coastal charm we all adore!

Connecting to the Ocean

So, what’s the plan? The new drainage system will stretch between 16th and 18th Avenues North and will be linked to a whopping 54-inch deepwater tunnel. This tunnel is set to whisk stormwater straight into the Atlantic Ocean. It’s designed to handle water from heavy storms that occur once every 25 to 100 years! Talk about a game changer! The current setup can only deal with those lighter rain events that happen once every couple of years, so you can imagine the difference this will make.

Preventing Flooding and Keeping Beaches Safe

City officials have reported that around 230 structures in the flood-prone area currently face the threat of rising waters. Plus, emergency responders often have to take a lengthy detour of about four miles on North Ocean Boulevard. With the new system, they’ll be able to zip right through in a pinch, ensuring safety all around. It’s a win-win!

State Representative William Bailey, who has been closely following the project, noted, “Over the years, both the state and North Myrtle Beach have recognized the significance of effective stormwater management in our coastal region.” This kind of support underscores just how vital this project is for the community.

What It Means for Residents

For locals and visitors alike, this new drainage system will not only help fend off flooding but will also have positive impacts on the beach itself! By pushing stormwater runoff deeper into the ocean, it aims to reduce bacteria levels on the shoreline, making it a safer spot for everyone to swim and enjoy. Who wouldn’t want to hop into clean, healthy waters?

Timeline for Completion

Construction is estimated to take up to 10 months, so while folks may need to be patient, the end result should be well worth the wait. Hopeful residents, business owners, and beachgoers can look forward to enjoying a summer in a more flood-resilient North Myrtle Beach.

As the community prepares for this exciting upgrade, everyone’s eager to see how the new systems will transform the area. With effective stormwater management systems finally getting the attention they need, North Myrtle Beach is on the right track for a brighter and drier future!