With funds provided from the State of S.C., North Myrtle Beach is buiding an ocean outfall at Cherry Grove Pier.
Cherry Grove Pier Manager Edgar Stephens says it belongs to the Ocean Outfall Watershed Project.
The $35 million project at 18th Avenue North beach access began on Jan. 11, 2023, according to an archived news release, with experts estimating it will take approximately a year to complete.
A statement from the City of North Myrtle Beach states that the project is intended to remove drainage pipes from the active beach, prevent further erosion, and maintain healthy water quality.
The city warned residents to expect some lane closures on Ocean Boulevard and nearby streets during construction.
According to the statement, some old drainage pipes from South Carolina Department of Transportation roads discharge directly onto the beach. An ocean outfall sends the pollutants out one mile where they are diluted by the salt water of the Atlantic Ocean.
According to a press release from the City of North Myrtle Beach, moving storm drain discharge further offshore helps prevent beach erosion and maintains healthy water quality in swimming areas. According to rigorous water quality monitoring, stormwater discharge into deeper water reduces bacteria levels near the shore.
In total, the Ocean Outfall program has cost the city more than $60 million, and it is governed by the state-funded Rural Infrastructure Authority.
It reduces pollutants, potential illness, inland flooding, damage to the Federal Beach Renourishment Project, and improves public safety.