Federal funds to help repair roads, trails and parking lots at lake
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is getting some extra money to help with Hurricane Helene repairs and debris removal around Strom Thurmond Lake.
The money is coming from the Federal Highway istration after a request by the corps.
Lingering debris from Helene poses special hazards on the lake
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is all about safety on the water while having fun too, but wardens are warning that there’s still some debris from Hurricane Helene that can pose dangers at Clarks Hill Lake and in the Savannah River.
The funds allow the corps to address storm-related damage to transportation assets like roads, parking lots and trails, plus removal of debris, hazardous trees and stumps.
The money doesn’t allow for the reduction and permanent disposal of debris or the repair of recreation facilities such as restrooms, campsites and courtesy docks. So the corps will pursue other funding for those efforts.
How to stay safe in the water this summer season
Experts advise parents to keep a vigilant eye while their children are in or near a body of water.
Since the hurricane hit in September 2024, the corps has reopened most of its boat ramps and access points, as well as three day use areas – Clarks Hill Park, Below Dam and West Dam. Timber salvage operations are wrapping up at Petersburg Campground, Lake Springs Day Use Area and Parksville Day Use Area.
The corps says 41 of 51 recreation areas are now open or partially open to the public. For more details, visit https://www.sas.usace.army.mil/About/Divisions-and-Offices/Operations-Division/J-Strom-Thurmond-Dam-and-Lake/.
“We still have a long road ahead of us to repair infrastructure and make the recreation areas safe to reopen to the public,” said Tammy Cleveland with the corps.
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