Augusta Residents Cautioned as Canal Towpath Faces Repairs Following Hurricane Helene

Augusta Residents Cautioned as Canal Towpath Faces Repairs Following Hurricane Helene

Hey there, Augusta! We’ve got some important news for you about the beloved Augusta Canal towpath. As many of you might be aware, hurricane season can bring some unexpected surprises, and Hurricane Helene certainly left her mark on our beautiful community. Unfortunately, its aftermath has led to considerable damage along the canal trail, particularly in the upper section of the towpath.

Stay Safe: Avoid the Upper Section

In light of the storm’s impact, Augusta Utilities is asking all residents to steer clear of the upper section of the Augusta Canal towpath trail, which runs from Savannah Rapids Park southward for approximately 3.6 miles. This area has been affected by fallen trees, broken limbs, and some precarious overhead hazards that could pose risks to those who venture into the area. Oops, let’s put those walking shoes aside for now!

The dedicated teams working on repairs have shared that the condition of the towpath is dangerous, with several danger zones clearly marked by debris and foliage. This isn’t just a casual recommendation folks; it’s a serious notice to stay off the path for your safety and for the efficiency of those working hard to restore the area back to its usual pristine state. Your cooperation can help expedite the repairs!

Where Can You Go Instead?

We totally understand that your weekly jog or serene nature walk might be getting interrupted, but fear not! There’s still plenty of beautiful paths to explore. The section between the raw water pumping station and the Lake Olmstead trailhead remains safe, as does the route between Lake Olmstead and downtown. So grab those sneakers and get ready to enjoy these maintained paths while the crew does their magic on the upper towpath.

Help Us Keep an Eye Out!

As we all join together to navigate this inconvenience, Augusta Utilities encourages everyone to keep a lookout for additional hazards near the towpath. If you spot something that seems unsafe, don’t hesitate to report it! You can give them a call at 706-842-3060. Your alertness can make a huge difference in keeping our community safe.

No Set Timeline for Repairs

Just a heads up, there isn’t a specific timeline for when the repairs will be completed. This is due to the unpredictable nature of repairs, especially after a storm like Hurricane Helene. So, let’s rally together and exercise a little patience while the professionals work to clear the debris and make the area safe again.

We Appreciate Your Understanding!

In closing, we appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time. The Augusta Canal towpath has been a gem for our community, a place where many come to relax, exercise, and enjoy nature’s beauty. Let’s all do our part to keep it safe and welcoming for everyone as we work through these repairs.

As always, remember that taking a little time away from the trail now ensures a much better experience for all in the future. Happy walking and let’s keep our city beautiful, Augusta!