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TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. — For many years, Tybee Island’s beaches have been the backdrop for the popular Orange Crush beach festival. This year, however, the event is set for a transformation under the guidance of its organizer, Mayor Brian West announced.
Scheduled to take place on April 18, Crush Reloaded will bring new energy to Georgia’s coast, spearheaded by Steven Smalls, who has been granted a conditional permit for the event.
“We partnered with him last year as well,” West explained. “Although he and his previous partner parted ways, he was the main force behind last year’s success, adept at organizing the event and securing talent.”
The festival’s rebranding was prompted by the trademarking of “Orange Crush” by Smalls’ former associate, necessitating a fresh identity.
In previous years, the beach party has led to significant traffic congestion, disrupted local businesses, and raised public safety issues. To address these concerns, the City of Tybee plans to convene next week to review Smalls’ proposed safety measures and event plans.
One local small business, Transcendent Treasures, stays open every year during the festival, despite the crowds.
“For us it’s been a positive experience,” said Kelly Minadeo. “We haven’t had anything that was off putting or made us uncomfortable in any way.”
Other local bars and restaurants, who denied going on camera, told they’ve closed in the past because their employees had trouble getting to work due to traffic delays. Some said they previously had to deal with underage people trying to come into their establishment.
“If our businesses are having to shut down during this event when there are so many people here and they could be doing so well, it’s a real tragedy,” said West.
West said a comprehensive safety plan is in the works. Georgia State Patrol will monitor the roads coming onto the island, while Tybee Police patrol the streets and beaches.
“We have so many state agencies, local agencies, county agencies, you know, engaged here for this event that it’s just really hard for somebody to come down here and get away with anything,” said West.
He said visitors should expect road closures and limited access to the beach.
“It’s going to be difficult to get to the event,” said West. “If you want to come to it, please do. But just plan to maybe be disappointed that you don’t make it here.”
Neighborhoods will be restricted and parking near the pier will be closed. Something new this year, there will be additional parking on Butler Avenue said West.