Beaufort Co. leaders consider $13M plan to replace historic Broad River Fishing Pier

BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WTOC) - Beaufort County leaders are taking steps to ensure a beloved local landmark has a future, unveiling an early plan to replace the deteriorating Broad River Fishing Pier completely.

to replace the deteriorating Broad River Fishing Pier completely

County officials are now exploring several funding paths, including a public-private partnership that has some residents concerned about potential fees.

A landmark near the end

For 25 years, the Broad River Fishing Pier has served as a staple for the Beaufort community, offering a free space to fish, walk, and gather.

“It’s relaxing. We come and bring our kids here all the time, so it gives them space to run around and also enjoy fishing,” Jennifer Harris said.

However, the structure is showing its age.

Originally built in 1959 as the old Highway 170 Bridge, it was converted into a fishing pier after being bypassed by the newer Broad River Bridge.

Over the last decade, county engineers and outside groups have conducted multiple studies revealing significant structural deterioration.

“This is at the end of its life and needs some type of replacement,” Beaufort County’s Interim Director of Capital Projects, Jared Fralix said.

While officials emphasize that the pier remains safe and will not close immediately, they stress the importance of having a plan locked in.

“We’re trying to be proactive to make sure that we have a plan, so that when it gets to the point of absolutely needing a replacement, we have a plan ready that’s ready and funded, so that we can implement that,” Fralix said.

A shorter span for less money

To manage costs, the current design proposes a smaller footprint than the existing pier.

The current structure measures 1,800 linear feet long by 32 feet wide.

While the replacement would be shorter, county leaders reassure anglers that the change won’t affect their catch.

“What we want to do is make sure it is long enough to retain its fishing quality, and what we have come up with is a shorter span for less money,” Fralix explained.

Funding options and resident concerns

Beaufort County Council recently reviewed the early design stages and directed the project team to finalize the plans while identifying potential funding sources.

Among the options being considered are:

• A county property tax millage
• Accommodations and hospitality taxes
• A future capital projects sales tax
• Federal or state grants
• A public-private partnership (P3) through a request for proposals (RFP)

The potential for a public-private partnership has drawn concern from regular pier visitors who worry it could lead to paid admission or fishing fees.

“It would mean a lot to come out here still and do something for free simply because a lot of things are becoming expensive,” Harris said. “To keep this free is beneficial not only for adults, but kids as well.”

Fralix confirmed that exploring a public-private partnership is on the table per the council’s request.

“Council also asked us to look at an RFP for a public-private partnership to see if there are any opportunities there, as well as... other funding sources. So, that’s where we are right now,” Fralix said.

As engineers work to finalize the design, county leaders will continue to weigh how to finance the $13 million landmark replacement.