A significant portion of the Augusta Canal Towpath welcomed visitors once more on Friday, reopening after an extended closure of over a year due to the damage inflicted by Hurricane Helene.

As the community returns to this cherished trail, there is a palpable sense of excitement, despite the storm’s lingering impact. The towpath remains a beloved spot for runners, walkers, and cyclists throughout the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA).

“We couldn’t wait to come back once we heard it was open, even though we knew things would look different,” shared Katharina Thompson, who enjoyed a stroll along the towpath with her husband on Saturday.

“It’s still beautiful with the path, the river, the waves, and the rocks. But it’s a bit sad too; so many trees are gone,” she added.

Despite the noticeable changes, officials emphasize that significant efforts were made to ensure the safe reopening of the trail. Russ Gambill, vice chairman of the Augusta Canal Authority, noted that utility crews and targeted repairs were instrumental in making the area accessible once again.

“The canal itself is maintained by the gas utility that opened back up,” said Gambill.

“We allocated money to put pedestrian bridges, the kayak docks in, and we maintain the trails.”

Visitors from outside the area are also welcoming the reopening.  Mario Rosgo, a runner visiting from Charleston, said the towpath is a regular stop whenever he’s in Augusta.

“I love walking on this thing,” said Rosgo. 

“Every time I’m in town, I come and run the trails. It gives you a chance to relax.”

Rosgo also noticed some unexpected benefits following the storm cleanup.

“Not as many puddles as normal, so I like that, too,” he continued. 

While portions of the trail are now open, officials say repairs are far from complete. Total repair costs across the canal system are expected to reach around $32 million.

“We’re going to take some actions to try to limit those costs and spread them over a longer period of time,” said Wes Byne, director of the Augusta Utilities Department. 

“But we want to make sure that everything is functioning and safe the way it should be.”

Some sections of the towpath are still under repair.  Gambill urges visitors to use caution while walking or biking through the area.