Cayce Riverwalk Cleanup: Community Rallies to Restore Flood-Damaged Scenic Trails

Cayce Riverwalk Cleanup: A Community Effort to Restore the Beauty

Welcome to Cayce, a charming city situated just across the Congaree River from Columbia! This small but vibrant community is currently working through a significant challenge as it undertakes its largest riverwalk cleanup following a series of floods that have reshaped the beloved landscape. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, you probably enjoy paddling along the Congaree or taking a relaxed stroll down the scenic trails of the Cayce Riverwalk. But lately, Mother Nature has imposed some hefty repairs on this local gem.

A Sandbar no More

As we rode along the riverwalk on a sunny Thursday morning, city Public Information Officer Ashley Hunter reminisced about the good old days when kayakers would often take a break on the sandbar that once lay beneath the train trestle. It was a popular retreat for college students during hot summer days, who would lounge around soaking up the sun.

However, that sandbar has vanished. The Congaree River, swollen to a staggering 31 feet during Hurricane Helene, swept away the sandy beach and deposited piles of sediment in its place. The results are hardly what you’d expect; entire benches were buried under 2-3 feet of mud and debris, transforming the once-pristine pathways into muddy mazes.

Mud and More Mud

Parks Department Manager James Denny explained how the flooding had deposited soft silt and debris across the parkway, making cleanup a daunting task. “The first thing we did was come in, assess the damage, and remove the trees that were blocking the path,” he said, highlighting the team’s relentless spirit.

Cleanup crews swung into action to clear fallen trees and sticky mud, reminiscent of the extensive cleanup they tackled after the “1,000-year flood” back in 2015. Back then, the river reached an alarming height of 31.5 feet. Denny mentioned, “Those floods deposited anywhere from six inches to a foot of debris, making it an ongoing battle to restore the riverwalk’s beauty.”

The Plan for Recovery

The city is geared up to tackle a slew of issues. The southern ends of the riverwalk, which include the Timmerman Trail loop, suffered significant damage. Trees blocked bridges and trails, creating an uphill battle for crews striving to bring the area back to life. Fortunately, a contractor regularly brought in for such situations is on board to help restore access to the trails.

The city plans to reopen some parts of the riverwalk by Saturday, with hopes to tackle northern sections soon after. While the eyes are set on reopening, repairs will be complex. Denny pointed out, “Multiple light poles were pulled from the ground, and we need to call in Dominion Energy to manage exposed wiring and electrical issues.”

Stability Concerns

As they embark on these repairs, there’s additional consideration for safety. The path’s extended 1,800-foot boardwalk runs along a steep bank, which while currently stable, poses concerns for cyclists, especially with a slight incline causing potential hazards. Denny chuckled, saying, “We call it 1,800 feet of hell,” due to the routine maintenance required, primarily because of erosion.

A Surprise Awaits

The muddy cleanup isn’t all they’re worried about. Denny shared a quirky story from a previous flood when they discovered approximately 10 to 15 catfish stranded along the riverbank after waters fell rapidly. “It’s not just trees and mud; sometimes Mother Nature throws in a surprise.”

A Community Effort

The cleanup of the Cayce Riverwalk embodies the community’s resilience and determination to restore their treasured outdoor space. With hard work and dedication, this city is proving that no flood can diminish the beauty of its riverside oasis. If you haven’t had the chance to explore this natural wonder, now’s a great time to see the power of nature—and our collective efforts to reclaim it.

So, grab your kayak or lace up your walking shoes, and come on down to witness firsthand how Cayce is rising above the floods. Change is coming, and the Cayce Riverwalk will be back better than ever!