Dorchester County parks staff show Ashley River Park West concepts, seek $200,000 for river cleanup

Dorchester County parks staff presented conceptual designs for Ashley River Park West and told the Parks and Recreation Commission they have applied for $200,000 from the state Water Recreational Fund to remove large underwater tree obstructions in the Ashley River, staff said during the commission's meeting.

The conceptual work, prepared by Clemson University landscape-architecture students, includes proposals for an amphitheater, canopy/adventure zones, boardwalks, birding trails, platform camping, sensory pollinator gardens and a proposed skywalk. Austin, a parks staff member presenting the report, said the student work gave the county “really good base” material and emphasized natural-resource features for wildlife viewing and seasonal events.

The design materials also considered expanding the park footprint. Austin said he had discussed acreage next door with Lennar and that those talks “may be able to get a pretty much doubling the size of that almost.” He and other staff said they will pursue cost estimates for a preliminary conceptual design and consider hiring outside consultants to convert student ideas into formal concepts.

Why it matters: the concepts would guide future capital planning and funding; removing submerged tree debris is a safety and access issue that the county says requires specialized equipment and diver crews.

Staff described access and safety problems on a paddle route through the park. Austin said contractors told county staff that clearing the largest obstructions will require divers and special equipment, not just chainsaws, and that some trees are “wedged under a dock.” He said staff counted about five large obstructions visible at medium tide and that volunteers and monthly litter-pick paddles are being organized while the county pursues professional removal.

On funding, Austin said, “We did. We submitted a request for the Water Recreational Fund money. I requested $200,000.” He added that the county had informed its state delegation and was awaiting word whether the request remained in the state budget.

The presentation covered other parks work: Pine Trace is nearing opening, and staff said weather permitting the county expects to be able to turn keys and open in roughly four to six weeks. Parks staff reported they had hired most seasonal and operations staff in anticipation of the opening and that onboarding and training are underway.

Staff also highlighted recent and upcoming programs: an accessible Easter egg hunt held in partnership with Pattison's Academy and Summerville High School special-education staff; a glow-egg hunt and glow dance party; routine CPR training opportunities for supervisors; and outreach to regional disc-golf tournament directors who expressed interest in hosting events at the county's new course.

Other ideas mentioned include kayak vending machines at launch points and a seasonal shuttle for one-way paddles; staff said these concepts have been researched but would depend on demand and funding. The commission also discussed procurement questions for hiring consultants to develop conceptual drawings and noted the need to coordinate with procurement staff to avoid conflicts.

The commission recorded two procedural actions during the meeting: a motion to approve minutes for a January 28 meeting (moved by Debney, seconded by Montai; voice vote recorded as “Aye”) and a motion to adjourn (second recorded; voice vote “Aye”).

The county said staff will continue pursuing conceptual cost estimates, potential land expansion conversations, the Water Recreational Fund request status, and contractor bids for river debris removal. Staff also reported the departure of senior park ranger Garen Gruber, who accepted a position with the Sustainability Institute.