Cayce Struggles with Hurricane Aftermath as Riverwalk Remains Closed
**CAYCE** — Residents looking forward to enjoying the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities of the Cayce Riverwalk are in for some disappointing news. The beloved walkway, which traces over 12 miles along the Congaree River, is currently closed indefinitely. This follows significant damage caused by Hurricane Helene and the flooding of the Congaree River.
A Tough Cleanup Ahead
City officials have been working diligently since the storm to assess the extent of the damage. On October 7, the city shared an update via social media, explaining that the Cayce Parks Department is in the process of evaluating the damage not just to the riverwalk but also to the Timmerman Trail. Those efforts are expected to be quite extensive and might take several weeks to complete.
The aftermath of the hurricane has left behind downed trees and an overwhelming amount of mud from flooding, further complicating efforts for cleanup crews trying to restore access to these vital recreational areas. Some sections of the riverwalk experienced being fully submerged under the floodwaters, leaving behind remnants of dirt and debris that need to be cleared before anything can open back up to the public.
Safety First
Cayce Councilmember Byron Thomas has emphasized the importance of safety during this time. He advised residents to steer clear of the riverwalk and surrounding trails until the cleanup is finished. “We’re working to the best of our ability,” Thomas stated, reiterating that the city is prioritizing the safety of its residents. “We just want to put safety first.”
High Water Levels
The Congaree River reached quite alarming levels during the hurricane, peaking at 30.58 feet on September 30, which was noted as one of the highest levels recorded to date. Local authorities have been constantly monitoring water levels, as they approached rates seen during the infamous 2015 ‘thousand-year flood’. The impact on low-lying areas of Cayce was significant, with reports of road closures and floodwaters creeping awfully close to homes.
What’s Next for the Riverwalk?
As it stands, the exact cost of repairs for the Cayce Riverwalk is still undetermined. However, city officials are optimistic that sections of the walkway will reopen as soon as they are cleared, cleaned, and deemed safe. It’s a waiting game for now, but there is hope that residents can soon return to enjoy the natural beauty of this cherished pathway.
A Community Remembering Resilience
The city of Cayce showcases a vibrant community buzzing with activity throughout the year. Residents are looking forward to the day when they can once again take leisurely strolls, jog along the scenic views, and enjoy family outings by the river. The Riverwalk has always been seen as a place of solace for many, and while it may be temporarily out of commission, the strength of community support and commitment to recovery will surely prevail.
As the city navigates this challenging time, residents are encouraged to stay updated on the status of the Cayce Riverwalk and other local parks and trails through official communications. The city is dedicated to expediting the clean-up process, and in time, the Riverwalk will stand ready to welcome back those seeking respite along its paths.
