Update on Recovery Efforts in Aiken Following Tropical Storm Helene
The city of Aiken is in recovery mode after the powerful impacts from Tropical Storm Helene, which swept through the area on September 27. This storm was no small affair; meteorologists recorded wind gusts reaching up to 90 mph and sustained winds over 70 mph. Given that the ground was already saturated from the storm’s outer bands, many trees were uprooted or snapped, leading to extensive damage across Aiken and even knocking out power lines across the city and beyond.
Budget and Cleanup Costs
The financial toll of this disaster has been significant, with recovery expenses for the city nearing $750,000. In a meeting with the Aiken City Council on October 28, City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh detailed that, to date, the city has already spent $727,000 on hurricane-related expenses—this figure does not include payroll. These numbers are expected to rise as the city continues its damage assessment and cleanup operations.
But there is some good news for the residents. Bedenbaugh mentioned that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will be stepping in to help, with President Joe Biden declaring that eligible expenses incurred during the first 90 days of recovery will be fully reimbursed. This declaration came at the request of South Carolina’s Governor Henry McMaster.
Ongoing Debris Pickup
As the cleanup continues, Bedenbaugh has urged everyone to be patient with debris pickup efforts. “City staff continue to work in sensitive areas of the city,” he said. So far, they have made initial passes through several neighborhoods, including Sandstone, The Ridge, Chukker Creek, and Kensington. Additionally, debris removal in the Woodside area is set to begin on Tuesday.
The city has reported the collection of over 25,000 cubic yards of debris. Meanwhile, Aiken County and the South Carolina Department of Transportation are also pitching in with their contractors actively working in areas like Houndslake, Aiken Estates, and Deerwood, where they have cleared 16,700 cubic yards of debris.
Community Impact and Future Plans
Even with all the challenges posed by the storm, Aiken’s community spirit is shining through. Most of the city’s parks, recreation, and tourism operations have returned to normal, with only the beloved Hopelands Gardens and the Rye Patch remaining impacted. However, Bedenbaugh reassured that they are working diligently to ensure that the city’s annual Christmas in Hopelands event will start on time.
In addition, the city made significant progress clearing the intersection at Whiskey-Berrie road last week, a task that required a whopping 32 truckloads of debris. City staff anticipates that work to reinstall the traffic light at this intersection will commence in a couple of weeks, bringing relief for drivers.
A Knock at Nature’s Door
The powerful eastern side of Tropical Storm Helene reminded everyone just how fierce nature can be. As the storm transitioned from a hurricane to a tropical storm, it left a lasting mark on Aiken. But with recovery efforts underway and community members coming together, it feels like a new chapter is beginning for this resilient city.
As cleanup continues and normalcy returns, the citizens of Aiken can take comfort in knowing that help is on the way. With resilience and collaboration, the bond within the community remains strong, proving once again that **together, they can weather any storm**.
