Cleanup Underway Along Cayce Riverwalk After Hurricane Helene’s Devastation

Cleanup Efforts Underway Along Cayce Riverwalk After Hurricane

Cayce, South Carolina, is currently the center of attention as city officials and park staff tackle the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The storm brought significant rainfall that swelled the Congaree River to a staggering 31 feet, wreaking havoc on the beautiful Cayce Riverwalk that many outdoor enthusiasts hold dear.

Once a Sandbar Paradise

Just last Thursday morning, a couple of city officials took a stroll along the trail, reminiscing about how it used to be a bustling spot for kayakers and college students alike. Ashley Hunter, the city’s Public Information Officer, recalled that before the hurricane hit, a spacious sandbar provided a perfect resting spot for paddlers along the Congaree. She smiled as she spoke about the sunny days when local college students would lounge on the sand, soaking up the sun.

Unfortunately, that sandbar is now just a memory as the raging waters surged in and transformed the landscape. The Congaree River, during its dramatic rise, not only washed away the beloved sandbar but also left a thick deposit of sand along the trail itself. According to Parks Department Manager James Denny, sheets of sand now pile up on the path, creating messy drifts 2-3 feet high.

Addressing the Damage

The cleanup effort is monumental, perhaps the largest since the catastrophic “1,000-year flood” that struck in 2015. Denny explained that during Hurricane Helene’s peak, the water level remained elevated for about a week, depositing 6 inches to a foot of soft silt and debris along the walk. Trees, some hefty and adorned with leaves, were uprooted and left strewn across the path, creating obstacles that officials rapidly scrambled to clear.

The city took immediate steps to assess damages after the storm, including removing fallen trees blocking access and using backhoes to clear mud and muck from the pathways. Denny noted that they are now facing multiple issues, not just sand and trees, but also dealing with benches that are partially buried in the sediment.

A Glimmer of Hope for Riverwalk Visitors

While many parts of the Riverwalk remain closed, there’s good news: sections are slated to reopen soon. The city has been working diligently with their contractors and with any luck, southern phases of the riverwalk, including the Timmerman Trail loop, could welcome visitors again this Saturday morning. Plans are also in the works to open northern phases of the riverwalk next week, including pathways near the Blossom Street Bridge.

Electrical Hazards and Structural Safety

However, it’s not all smooth sailing. Ripped-out light poles mean that Dominion Energy will need to assess exposed wiring and tackle electrical issues. What’s more, the riverbank has seen significant erosion, leading to concerns about the structural integrity of the 1,800-foot stretch of boardwalk that runs alongside a steep bank. Denny expressed concern for the safety of cyclists who whiz through at speeds of 15 miles per hour, as the angled boardwalk could pose a significant risk.

A Unique Cleanup Challenge

Cleaning up the thick layer of mud that has accumulated on the trail presents its own set of challenges. Unlike sand, which can be easily swept away, river mud is a stubborn opponent that literally traps everything within it, making cleanup efforts a back-breaking affair. Denny humorously remarked that if workers aren’t careful, they might lose shoes in the muck, leaving them to grapple with the sheer unyielding form of mud.

Nature’s Surprises

As Denny drove his backhoe, he shared stories not only of the current cleanup but also of past experiences. He recalled the time the river receded and left behind surprises—like 10 or 15 catfish, each around two and a half feet long, marooned on the trail after the waters went up and down too quickly for their own good.

The people of Cayce can look forward to the day when the scenic Riverwalk is back to its full glory, ready for kayakers, walkers, runners, and bikers again. Meanwhile, efforts to clean up and restore the trail continue—a true labor of love for those who cherish this outdoor haven.