Beaufort, SC, October 23, 2025
News Summary
The City of Beaufort has started a pivotal construction project to improve its stormwater management system, addressing severe flooding issues. Located off the waterfront behind Henry C. Chambers Park pavilion, the project, part of the $7 million Charles-Craven stormwater initiative, will replace an existing 48-inch pipe with a larger 72-inch one for better drainage. While the construction may impact local business access and pathways, city officials assure minimal disruption to tourist traffic. The project aims to enhance infrastructure and prepare for future challenges.
Beaufort, SC has commenced a significant construction project aimed at enhancing its stormwater management system to combat flooding issues in the area. The construction site is located off the waterfront behind the Henry C. Chambers Park pavilion and is expected to be heavily trafficked over the next several months.
The project entails exposing the ground from the water’s edge to the Bay Street entrance of the marina parking lot, leading to the removal of several elements, including a historic tree and brick pathways, due to their interference with existing 100-year-old underground pipes. However, the city plans to replant the tree and reconstruct the pathways once the project is completed.
This renovation is part of the larger Charles-Craven stormwater project, which involves a total investment of nearly $7 million and is funded by federal resources. When combined with a separate project in the historic home district, the total commitment rises to approximately $13 million.
Central to the work is the replacement of a current 48-inch stormwater pipe with a new, larger 72-inch pipe to enhance drainage effectiveness. This upgrade aims to mitigate issues stemming from sediment blockage that have plagued existing stormwater systems during heavy rainfall events.
Construction will initiate at the waterfront and progress towards the intersections of Charles and Craven. This approach is intended to prevent any potential permit or alignment issues. While city officials have stated that the construction should not disrupt tourist traffic or downtown operations, several local business owners have expressed concerns regarding potential impacts on their patronage.
During the construction phase, access to the main entrance of the marina parking lot and the primary pathway leading to Henry C. Chambers Park may be hindered. The city has committed to maintaining ongoing communication with stakeholders, including business owners and residents, throughout the duration of the project.
The next segment of work will focus on the intersection of Bay and Charles Street, which is also anticipated to last several months. Overall, the construction project aspires to strengthen the city’s drainage system, thereby benefiting both current residents and future populations.
Further enhancements to stormwater infrastructure are planned, involving investments totaling $16.1 million, sourced from the American Rescue Plan Act. These improvements are set to include the installation of larger pipes as well as a new tidal check valve designed to shield against flooding caused by intense rainfall.
Once construction wraps up, sidewalks and roads will be replaced in phases, with meticulous planning to minimize disruption. City officials assert that the long-term benefits associated with improved drainage will greatly outweigh the short-term inconveniences experienced during the construction phase.
Project Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Location | Off the waterfront behind Henry C. Chambers Park pavilion |
| Project Cost | Approximately $7 million (federally funded) |
| Total Investment | Approximately $13 million (including historic home district project) |
| Pipe Replacement | 48-inch stormwater pipe replaced with a 72-inch pipe |
| Impact on Access | Main marina entrance and pathways may be inaccessible |
| Expected Completion | Phased construction with communication to stakeholders |
FAQ
Where is the Beaufort stormwater renovation project located?
The City of Beaufort has begun construction off the waterfront behind Henry C. Chambers Park pavilion.
What is the cost of the Charles-Craven stormwater project?
The renovation is part of the Charles-Craven stormwater project, which costs almost $7 million and is federally funded.
What are the concerns of local business owners during construction?
Local business owners remain concerned about potential impacts on their patronage during the construction.
What changes will be made to the stormwater drainage system?
The existing 48-inch stormwater pipe will be replaced with a new, larger 72-inch pipe to improve drainage effectiveness.
Will the project hinder access to the marina parking lot?
The main entrance to the marina parking lot and the main pathway to Henry C. Chambers Park may be inaccessible during construction.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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J.J. Sauve Resigns as Deputy City Manager of Beaufort
Deputy City Manager J.J. Sauve Resigns from Beaufort
Community Unites to Address Flooding Crisis on Lady’s Island
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Additional Resources
- WSAV: Beaufort Starting $6.9 Million Stormwater Project Off Waterfront
- Wikipedia: Stormwater Management
- Your Island News: Drainage Work Set to Start on Charles Street
- Google Search: Stormwater Drainage Improvements
- WTOC: Beaufort Officials Aim to Attack Flooding with Stormwater Projects
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- Island Packet: Weather News in Beaufort
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Drainage
- WITN: Major Town Improvement Project in Beaufort
- Google News: Beaufort Flooding Projects
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
