Port Royal Faces Challenges After Tropical Storm Helene
Port Royal, SC – The aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene has left the beautiful Port Royal waterfront looking a bit worse for wear. As of late September, the county has declared the popular Sands Beach boat landing closed until further notice due to extensive damage caused by the storm. While folks were eagerly awaiting the weekend, local officials had to prioritize safety over leisure.
Storm Impacts
Tropical Storm Helene made its entrance on **September 27**, and the damage was immediate and significant. According to the Port Royal Town Manager, Van Willis, the boat landing had actually been closed right after Helene passed through, but the official announcement from Beaufort County came just as another tropical storm, named Milton, was making its way past the area. It’s crucial to note that while Milton was passing, it was Helene that caused all of the damage we’re seeing now.
What’s Closed?
For those looking to set sail or enjoy some time on the water, here’s the scoop: The boat launch, located between Sands Beach and the Henry Robinson Boardwalk, is one of the most popular spots for boaters in northern Beaufort County. Even though this beloved landing is owned by the town of Port Royal, Beaufort County is responsible for its maintenance—making the closure especially impactful for local residents and visitors alike.
The public access along Battery Creek bore the brunt of the storm surge, which is evident in the damage reports. Additionally, a significant section of the boardwalk, which is proudly maintained by the town, was washed away during Helene’s rampage, leaving yet another gap in the waterfront experience.
Next Steps
As for the recovery, the town has already swung into action. Willis mentioned that they are actively seeking proposals to repair the boardwalk, because let’s face it, a waterfront without a boardwalk just isn’t the same!
Over at the Beaufort County Public Works Department, teams of marine contractors are currently assessing just how bad the damage really is to the boat landing. They’re gearing up for repair work that will begin as soon as possible. It’s one of those “better late than never” situations, and everyone is hoping for a speedy recovery.
Finding Alternatives
In the meantime, for those eager to get out on the water, there are still alternatives available. Residents and visitors can find information on other county boat landings, public water access points, bluffs, and piers through the Beaufort County website or by giving them a call at 843-255-2800. It’s a great idea to explore all the options available while the repairs are underway!
Community Spirit
The community spirit in Port Royal is as strong as ever, and locals understand that nature can sometimes throw a wrench in our best-laid plans. As the cleanup and recovery efforts begin, the hope is to restore the waterfront to its former glory at Sands Beach and beyond.
So, while the boat launch may be closed for now, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy the beauty of Port Royal safely. Stay tuned for updates as the situation evolves, and let’s keep our fingers crossed for sunny skies ahead!
