Cayce Residents Rally Together Amid Flooding Challenges
This past weekend, the quiet city of Cayce found itself grappling with the effects of heavy rainfall resulting from Hurricane Helene. As the rain fell and the water levels rose in the local Congaree River, residents like William Marshall prepared for what they knew could be a challenging situation. Marshall, a longtime chef at the popular local spot, The Kingsman, awoke on Sunday morning and immediately checked the river’s status. It was quickly clear to him that the situation needed attention.
A Familiar Situation
Marshall, who has deep roots in Riverland Park, where he lived for sixteen years in his youth and returned four years ago, knew that his neighborhood was prone to flooding. “Realized how far the water had come just overnight, I knew that this was gonna be a little bit different,” he explained. Understanding the urgency, Marshall sprang into action by digging out his kayak and canoe, readying them for potential use.
By Monday, the Congaree River crested at about 30.5 feet, causing Riverland Park to suffer flooding similar to what occurred in 2015. Fortunately, by Tuesday evening, reports indicated that fewer than 12 homes had experienced water ingress, and thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Community Actions in Crisis
As floodwaters rose, Marshall took it upon himself to lend a helping hand to neighbors. His involvement included checking in on landlords, and even assisting with rescues. He was a beacon of support when the city sent boats to evacuate a family whose home filled with water up to their waist. Through it all, Marshall made sure to bring food and supplies to those stranded, even delivering a much-needed 12-pack of Busch Light to one neighbor who humorously requested it amidst rising anxiousness.
“I was just going to put my foot forward and help,” stated Marshall, highlighting the communal spirit that shines through in times of adversity. Despite a beer delivery being an unexpected but light-hearted contribution, Marshall emphasized that whether it was food, diapers, or any other necessities, he was dedicated to helping those in need.
Post-flood Recovery Begins
By Tuesday afternoon, the Congaree River started to recede, dipping below flood stage. However, the cleanup in Cayce is far from over. The Thomas Newman boat landing and the riverwalks connecting Cayce and West Columbia remained completely underwater following the flood. The damage on Old State Road connecting the neighborhood to the riverwalk was significant, tearing up stretches of asphalt and leaving closures likely for an extended time.
Jim Crosland, the interim city manager of Cayce, foresees a busy recovery for the city’s Parks Department. “Usually, it’s certain portions only that the riverwalk floods… I think we’re gonna be out at least a week and a half, two weeks, just trying to get all the mud and debris out there.”
Community Events Continue
While residents of Cayce face challenges in their recovery efforts, the spirit of the community endures. The city has looked to bolster morale by continuing with the annual Fall Fest at Granby Gardens Park, where residents are encouraged to bring canned goods for those in need. Mayor Elise Partin expressed the importance of community gatherings during tough times, stating, “We felt like it was important to come together as a community.”
As residents begin to return home and assess the situation, they’re coming together to support one another through this trying period. Whether borrowing kayaks to check on flooded homes or sharing updates amongst neighbors, the community remains tightly knit. As Marshall aptly put it, “It’s just a real strong bond.”
Cayce, like many communities faced with the aftermath of floods, is learning that their strength lies in their unity and willingness to help one another. With the waters slowly receding, the focus turns to recovery, cleanup, and restoring normalcy in this tight-knit neighborhood.
