Clemson design team unveils Abernathy Park concept centered on water access and new gathering spaces

Darren, a presenter from design firm MKSK, told the council at a Jan. 5 work session that the Abernathy Park conceptual plan grew from extensive community outreach and “we have had a lot of conversations with residents in Clemson and they’ve been overwhelmingly positive.” The team outlined two organizing moves: prioritize water—views, boating and fishing—and create distinct park nodes for gatherings and small events.

The proposal centers on a signature pier house the team proposes re-christen the Butch Trent Pavilion, a deeper-water boat dock and a fishing platform to improve lake access. The pier house would be open to the public rather than reservable, and the dock layout is intended to concentrate boat parking in deeper water to reduce traffic deeper into the inlet, the presenter said. The plan also shows two reservable on-land shelters, expanded boardwalks with swings oriented to lake views, and a central “community lawn” created by relocating parking and restrooms to park edges.

Why it matters: Council members and residents expressed broad support for preserving water views and nature features while asking for clarity on traffic, privacy and operational costs. Several residents said they value the lakefront character and worry that increased vehicle or boat traffic could diminish the park’s “oasis” quality.

Council direction and next steps: Council asked the design team to produce detailed cost estimates, a maintenance-cost forecast (including restroom operations), and programming-cost scenarios to inform budgeting and potential phasing. The presenter agreed to return with those figures. One council member urged the city to consider dredging as part of planning for added water structures; staff confirmed a dredging permit application is being prepared but cautioned that permits are not guaranteed and suitable disposal sites must be identified.

Quotes from meeting participants reflect the mix of enthusiasm and caution. On public reaction to the plans, the presenter said the outreach “was very well received” and that many comments were detailed suggestions about signage, materials and lighting. In response to dredging concerns, staff noted they are “putting [a dredging] application together” but warned that applying does not ensure approval.

What remains unresolved: The council did not set a construction budget or approve a phasing plan. Key unresolved items include the cost and permitting timeline for dredging, final restroom decisions and whether Kiwi Trail should be closed to through traffic—residents living near the trail expressed both support (less cut-through traffic) and concern (added travel time). The design team will return with cost and maintenance estimates and more detailed drawings before any construction decisions are made.

The work session ended and the council reconvened for its regular meeting at 6:15 p.m.