KERSHAW COUNTY, S.C. — A new boat ramp is in the works for boating enthusiasts in Kershaw County, following safety concerns and efforts to upgrade Patriot's Landing.
"It definitely causes stress trying to get your boat in, especially with all the negative points," said Andrew White, an avid boater in Kershaw County.
White says he struggles with the existing boat ramp, citing limited parking and trailer damage.
"A lot of the strains that come with it is mostly the bridge structure; water coming under there makes a big spiral," White said.
Russell Brazell, Kershaw County Council Member, explained that the county conducted a study to address the issues at Patriot's Landing.
The goal was to expand the ramps at Patriot's Landing, but at the last council meeting, a decision was made to build a new boat launch at Wateree River Veterans Park.
"We're going to put two launch points here in Veterans Park," Brazell said.
The decision to relocate the boat ramp north was influenced by the South Carolina Department of Transportation's plans to conduct repairs on the U.S. 1 bridge above Patriot's Landing.
"I think it will work great; it will give you a lot more room to park your boats and stuff," White said.
Joey Stukes said he frequents the area.
"I think it's a good idea. I think the platform land as well," Stukes said. "I think it's a better area over here; it seems like it's much safer on this side rather than on that side with the bridge."
"We still have some engineering studies to do; I think we can move along rather quickly at this point; I hope to see construction start later this year," added Brazell.
The project is estimated to cost $600,000. The county received funds from the state budget, specifically the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism ($500,000). The county will use $100,000 from the general budget.