Will beach renourishment close Grand Strand shores this July Fourth weekend?
Flocks of tourists and locals alike will descend on Grand Strand beaches this holiday weekend as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’s beach renourishment project continues.
Will the work impact beachgoers in downtown Myrtle Beach?
The area will largely be open to the public, but a 500-foot active construction and demobilization zone near Third Avenue South will remain fenced off through the holiday weekend.
“Thankfully, we’re nearing the finish line for beach renourishment in Myrtle Beach, and the project is now moving south of the city,” said city of Myrtle Beach Director of Communications and Creative Services Meredith Denari. “The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has advised us that no major construction activities are expected on July 4 or July 5, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the holiday weekend with minimal disruption.”
Authorities say active sand placement near the Second Avenue Pier and Third Avenue South should finish on Friday, but the Third Avenue beach access point will have limited access on July 3. The area will be open for public access and pedestrian use on July Fourth and Sunday, with no trucking or sand placement
Calhoun Drive in Surfside Beach will have limited access Friday but will be open on the Fourth of July and Sunday for pedestrian access. Sand placement is expected in the area on both Saturday and Sunday.
“USACE recognizes the impact of this closure during a major holiday, particularly in a highly trafficked area popular for fireworks viewing and celebrations,” U.S. Army Corps of Engineers public affairs Dylan Burnell said in a statement. “However, active renourishment sites are hazardous industrial work zones.”
Workers and local law enforcement are implementing enhanced holiday safety protocols this weekend, so authorities remind all beachgoers to respect barriers, avoid industrial equipment and steer clear of designated work zones.
“We appreciate the patience and understanding of our residents, visitors, local businesses and hoteliers throughout the project,” Denari said. “Beach renourishment creates a wider, more resilient beach that helps protect homes, businesses and infrastructure from future storms while preserving the very resource that drives our local economy. Our beach is our greatest asset, and investing in its long-term health helps ensure Myrtle Beach remains a premier destination for generations to come.”
The project, which was originally slated to finish in Myrtle Beach city limits by Memorial Day, is now expected to wrap in early July. After completing work in Myrtle Beach, dredging is set to continue in Surfside Beach and Garden City, starting near Fifth Avenue South in Surfside and moving north toward Myrtle Beach State Park.
The latest updates and information can be found online at the project’s website.