News Summary
North Myrtle Beach is set to receive $28 million for ocean outfalls and stormwater mitigation projects, aimed at enhancing public safety and resilience against flooding. The funding, announced by Congressman Russell Fry, comes from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as part of the American Relief Act. The projects are expected to significantly improve the city’s stormwater management capabilities and protect residents and visitors from flooding during heavy rainfall events.
North Myrtle Beach Secures Major Funding for Stormwater and Ocean Projects
In a significant development, North Myrtle Beach is set to receive $28 million for ocean outfalls and stormwater mitigation projects, a move aimed at improving the city’s resilience against flooding and enhancing public safety along the coast. The funding was announced by Congressman Russell Fry, who confirmed the financial support coming from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Funding Boost from the American Relief Act
This substantial amount is part of the American Relief Act, 2025, recently signed into law. Just earlier this month, Fry had written to the U.S. Army Corps requesting this funding, and his efforts have evidently paid off. The funding will be allocated over the next three fiscal years, allowing the city to initiate vital projects designed to address stormwater and ocean outfall challenges.
Key Projects to Enhance Coastal and Public Safety
The projects funded by this initiative are crucial for the ongoing fight against flooding in the area. The construction of ocean outfalls, for both immediate needs and long-term resilience, is expected to play a pivotal role in managing stormwater effectively. By investing in these projects, North Myrtle Beach aims to improve its capabilities to safely handle heavy rainfall events and reduce the risk of flooding, thereby protecting both residents and visitors.
Support from Local Leaders
Local officials, including Mayor Marilyn Hatley, have highlighted the funding’s importance in addressing the city’s longstanding challenges regarding stormwater management and flooding. This financial boost is seen as a key catalyst to advance ongoing work on critical outfall projects and improve overall stormwater facilities.
Current Maintenance Efforts
As part of its routine maintenance strategy, North Myrtle Beach is also actively inspecting and cleaning existing ocean outfalls. This process, typically conducted every five years, involves qualified divers who assess for any deficiencies and perform necessary repairs. These inspections ensure that systems are functioning efficiently, which contributes significantly to maintaining water quality in the coastal region.
Myrtle Beach’s Continued Efforts
In a related development, Myrtle Beach is forging ahead with its own ocean outfall project. As of August 19, 2025, construction has begun on a new outfall at 24th Avenue North, which will replace 11 aging stormwater pipes. The total estimated cost of this Myrtle Beach ocean project is approximately $46 million, with bid costs accepted at $42.6 million. This ongoing commitment to stormwater management has previously seen Myrtle Beach invest over $75 million in such projects, even securing a $30 million grant from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Community Impact and Guidelines
As construction progresses, residents and visitors are advised to remain aware of swimming regulations. Specifically, it is recommended not to swim within 200 feet of river outfalls, though the beach remains accessible. This guidance aims to ensure safety while reinforcing the community’s commitment to protecting its natural resources.
Learning from Other Regions
North Myrtle Beach and its neighboring region are part of a broader trend where municipalities across California and Florida have initiated similar storm drainage and ocean outfall projects. These efforts not only bolster local infrastructure but also pave the way for enhanced environmental conservation and improved water quality.
A Bright Future Ahead
The infusion of $28 million in funding is heralded as a significant victory for North Myrtle Beach, underscoring the importance of strategic planning and investment in critical infrastructure. With these projects on the horizon, the city moves closer to overcoming its stormwater challenges and enhancing the safety and quality of life for its residents and visitors.
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Additional Resources
- WMBF News
- Wikipedia: North Myrtle Beach
- WBTW News
- Google Search: North Myrtle Beach stormwater mitigation
- Myrtle Beach Online
- Google Scholar: stormwater management
- ABC News 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: stormwater management
- Construction Equipment Guide
- Google News: stormwater mitigation North Myrtle Beach
