- Gas Fireplace Maintenance
- Chimney Cap Installation
- Fire Hazards with Dryer Vent Cleaning
Chimney Sweep Near Me Mount Pleasant, SC
There's something alluring about chimneys - whether they're old or new, they have an inherent charm that adds architectural flair to your home. Perhaps more importantly, fireplaces keep you and your family warm and cozy during cold South Carolina winters. Who doesn't love gathering in front of the fire with friends to enjoy a fun board game or a few rounds of drinks?
Anyone who owns a chimney should most certainly enjoy it. But you should know that your chimney isn't there to simply make your house look special - its primary role is to keep you and your family safe. In fact, when you're relaxing in front of a cozy fire with your favorite book, your chimney is hard at work making sure the fire's harmful fumes are directed up and away from you and your home.
Unfortunately, when you fail to clean your fireplace and the flue lining it, things can heat up in a matter of moments - and not in a good way. The truth is that unclean fireplaces can lead to chimney fires, which are known for causing horrible property damage and even harm to people. Chimney fires can be explosive, with flames shooting from the top of your chimney and dense smoke billowing out into the street. It's a horrible situation to endure. Fortunately, homeowners in South Carolina can rely on a chimney sweep in Mount Pleasant, SC, to keep their chimneys clean and in great working condition. That's where Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service comes into play - to help you enjoy your home's fireplace without worrying about worst-case scenarios.
Stay Safe, Warm, and Cozy withFlowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service
As a local, family-owned chimney sweep company in South Carolina, our team is dedicated to keeping gas fireplaces, wood burning fireplaces, and dryer vents clean and in great working condition for homeowners. By letting our family serve your family, you can rest easy knowing your fireplace and chimney are ready and waiting for you to enjoy this winter, whether you have a gas fireplace with logs or a more traditional wood burning alternative.
Our mission is to serve our customers with superior chimney and gas fireplace service by providing years of knowledge, time-tested solutions, and customer education to build trust and customer loyalty. We offer a range of chimney sweep services in Mount Pleasant, SC, including the following:
- Gas Fireplace Service, Repairs, & Installation
- Gas Log Service, Repair, & Installation
- Chimney Sweep Service & Cleaning
- Wood Fireplace Service & Repairs
- Exterior Chimney Cap Sales & Installation
- Chimney Inspections
Unlike some chimney sweep companies in South Carolina, our team has been certified to ensure we know how to install, maintain, and repair all types of fireplace appliances. In fact, over our more than 12 years of experience in the fireplace and hearth industry, we've obtained a few credentials along the way, including:
CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep
Homeowners looking for reliable and knowledgeable chimney and venting professionals have trusted the Chimney Safety Institute of America's (CSIA) endorsements for over three decades. By selecting a technician who is certified by CSIA, you can rest assured that they possess the necessary expertise, qualifications, and experience to provide you with top-notch chimney sweep service in South Carolina.
NFI Certified Gas Hearth and Wood Burning Hearth Professional
When it comes to planning and installing fireplaces, stoves, and venting systems, skill and technical knowledge are absolutely crucial. There are countless decisions that must be made, including determining the appropriate floor protection, appliance sizing and placement, and venting system compatibility and height.
For the most reliable and proper installation, it's highly recommended that you seek the guidance of a specialist. The National Fireplace Institute is a trusted, independent, non-profit certification agency that has established the highest standards for certification in the hearth industry. Those who pass the rigorous examination covering the fundamentals of proper installation are awarded NFI Specialist Certification, ensuring you can trust their expertise.
Now that you know a little bit about our company and our mission, it's time to learn more about the fireplace and hearth services we offer to homeowners in South Carolina.
Keeping Your Home Safe with Gas Fireplace Maintenance in Mount Pleasant, SC
Gas fireplaces are one of the most common features of homes in South Carolina and bring a special ambiance to any room. As with any appliance in your home, however, it's important to keep your gas fireplace maintained throughout the year.
It is crucial to have your gas hearth appliances serviced annually. At Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service, our team of experts will thoroughly clean, service, and inspect your gas hearth appliance, as well as perform any necessary repairs. If you notice black soot on your logs or they are not burning cleanly, it is imperative to shut down the appliance to schedule gas fireplace maintenance or repair ASAP.
It's important to note that your gas logs should only be serviced and repaired by a certified gas specialist from the NFI or National Fireplace Institute. There's nothing wrong with hiring a friend, but if they don't know what they're doing, your safety may be at risk.
Why Should You Have Your Gas Fireplace Serviced
At Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service, one of the most common questions we get is whether or not a customer really needs to have their fireplace serviced. The two biggest reasons for doing so are appliance reliability and safety. The truth is it's very important to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have the system inspected and serviced annually by a certified gas specialist.
Failure to do so could result in the production of lethal carbon monoxide gas, which is odorless and requires special equipment to detect. Additionally, gas leaks and improper venting can pose serious hazards, which is why inspection of the venting system, chimney, and fireplace is imperative. With proper maintenance and regular checks, you can enjoy the warmth of your gas hearth system with confidence and peace of mind.
If you haven't kept up with gas fireplace maintenance and believe something is wrong with your hearth or chimney, consider gas fireplace repair in Mount Pleasant, SC.
What About Un-Vented Gas Fireplaces?
Heating systems that don't require vents are like regular home heating systems. But they need to be working properly and checked often. It's a good idea to open a window if you're using a vent-free heater. There are rules about when you can use them. It's a good idea to have an expert check your heater's location. Sometimes, people don't know how to use their fireplace or heater correctly - and that's OK. At Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney, we're happy to answer questions and give you tips so you can safely enjoy your gas fireplace.
Common Signs You Need Gas Fireplace Repair
Whether you have a vented or un-vented gas fireplace, it's important to know when you need maintenance or repairs. Keep these signs in mind, especially as you approach fireplace season.
Burning Smells
If you detect any unusual odors emanating from your gas fireplace, it is important to take action. While some odors may not be a cause for concern, the smell of gas or burning wires should be taken seriously. To ensure your safety, turn off the fireplace and immediately open windows to let in fresh air. Be sure to also call a certified chimney sweeping company like Flowertown to repair and resolve any further issues. In the event of a suspected gas leak, evacuate your home immediately and dial 911 for assistance.
Your Gas Fireplace Turns On and Off
If your custom gas fireplace is turning on and then quickly turning off, this is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. There can be multiple reasons for this malfunction, so it's best to contact a trustworthy chimney sweep in South Carolina who specializes in gas fireplaces. Turn off the unit and wait for the technician to arrive to prevent any further damage.
Buildup of Soot
It's normal to wipe off soot from various areas of your fireplace while you're cleaning. However, if you notice excessive amounts of soot, you're dealing with an underlying problem that needs professional attention.
Pilot Light Malfunctions
If your gas fireplace's pilot light is not working properly, it could indicate a potential issue with the wiring, gas valves, or thermostat. Keep an eye out for any inconsistencies in its performance.
Reliable Wood Fireplace Maintenance in Mount Pleasant, SC
While gas fireplaces are more common and often easier to operate, wood fireplaces have their own unique ambiance and allure. If you're like us, nothing sounds better than curling up in front of a crackling fire on a cold winter's night with some hot cocoa and a good book. Unfortunately, when you fail to maintain your wood fireplace and are reluctant to have it repaired, you're putting your safety on the line.
That's why we offer top-notch chimney cleaning services at Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service. Our certified hearth professionals will thoroughly clean your chimney, removing any creosote buildup and inspecting all vital components to ensure everything is in proper working order. Don't take any chances when it comes to the safety of your home - trust us to keep your chimney in tip-top shape.
Why Should You Have Your Wood Fireplace Inspected by a Chimney Sweep?
There are several compelling reasons why you should have your system inspected by our team. As we mentioned earlier, your chimney is likely to accumulate creosote deposits, which can pose a serious fire hazard. However, with our chimney and fireplace sweeping services, you can significantly reduce this risk. Plus, there may be hidden defects in your system, such as within the flue or smoke chamber, which are difficult to detect without professional inspection.
Suppose you are a new homeowner or have never had your system inspected by a certified chimney sweeper in South Carolina. In that case, it's time to call Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service. Our experts can provide the necessary maintenance and recommendations to ensure your system is safe and functional. Whether you need an inspection, maintenance, or wood fireplace repair, our team is ready and waiting to help.
Why Should You Have Your Wood Fireplace Inspected by a Chimney Sweep?
There are several compelling reasons why you should have your system inspected by our team. As we mentioned earlier, your chimney is likely to accumulate creosote deposits, which can pose a serious fire hazard. However, with our chimney and fireplace sweeping services, you can significantly reduce this risk. Plus, there may be hidden defects in your system, such as within the flue or smoke chamber, which are difficult to detect without professional inspection.
Suppose you are a new homeowner or have never had your system inspected by a certified chimney sweeper in South Carolina. In that case, it's time to call Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service. Our experts can provide the necessary maintenance and recommendations to ensure your system is safe and functional. Whether you need an inspection, maintenance, or wood fireplace repair, our team is ready and waiting to help.
Essential Wood Burning Fireplace Safety Tips
Having a wood fireplace is a wonderful addition to any home, but it needs to be maintained and repaired, or else it can be very hazardous to your family. Try following these safety tips when enjoying your wood stove or fireplace.
Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
To increase the likelihood of effectively controlling a fire and preventing it from spreading, it is important to have a fire extinguisher nearby. This can significantly reduce the response time in the event of a fire, as every second counts.
Look for Chimney Cracks
Try to regularly inspect your chimney for any cracks, obstructions, or signs of damage. Cracks can be particularly dangerous, as they can allow heat, smoke, and harmful gases to escape into your home. Cracks can also serve as an entry point for water, which can be particularly harmful.
Talk to Your Family
To ensure safety around your wood burning fireplace, it's essential to educate your family, especially kids, about the potential hazards of fire and the importance of responsible behavior. By teaching them wood fireplace safety measures, you'll create a secure environment for everyone in your house.
Have Your Chimney Inspected by a Seasoned Chimney Sweep in South Carolina
Regular chimney inspections and cleanings prioritize safety and maintenance while providing peace of mind and reducing the risk of chimney fires. Plus, by having your wood fireplace inspected, you'll have peace of mind knowing it works when weather starts to freeze.
Protect Your Property with Chimney Cap Installation in Mount Pleasant, SC
If you've ever looked at a house and noted how great the top of their chimney looked, it's probably because they had an attractive chimney cap. Chimney caps and chase pans play a crucial role in both the functionality of a chimney system and the aesthetic appeal of a home's exterior. A well-designed chimney cap safeguards the chimney from animal intrusion, minimizes wind-induced downdraft, and is an essential component in preventing water entry, which can cause significant damage to chimneys.
If you're looking to add or replace your current chimney cap, you're in the right place. Our collection of custom chimney caps comes in a variety of styles and colors to match or supplement your home's beauty. Of course, as professional chimney sweepers in South Carolina, we also offer chimney cap repair and water prevention options where necessary.
How Do You Know When a Chimney Cap Needs Maintenance?
Your home's chimney cap is likely the highest point of your home, making it an easy feature to forget about when it comes to yearly maintenance or repair. That's unfortunate, because even small damage to your chimney and its cap can allow debris and water to enter. Do yourself a favor and examine your chimney cap regularly for the following red flags:
- Visible Cracks
- Loose Bricks
- Tiles Falling from Chimney
- Cracked Mortar Joints
- Rust in Fireplace
- More
If you notice any of the following signs, you should call Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service for expert chimney cap repair.
Avoid Hidden Fire Hazards with Dryer Vent Cleaning in Mount Pleasant, SC
Have you noticed that it's been taking longer to dry your clothes after washing them? If so, your dryer vent might need to be cleaned - and we're not just talking about the screen you pull out to remove lint. But why?
Regular cleaning of your dryer vents is a must for many reasons, but primarily to prevent lint buildup that can lead to house fires and extend your appliance's lifespan. Dryer vent cleaning is especially important if you tend to leave home while your dryer is in use, as a fire could ignite in your absence. Neglecting proper dryer vent cleaning not only wastes energy but also causes longer drying times and increases the likelihood of machine malfunctions.
Unsure whether you need dryer vent cleaning from Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service? Call our office today for an inspection - it's always better to be safe than sorry. You can also keep an eye out for signs like:
- Burning Smells
- Extra-Long Dry Times
- Your Clothes are Unusually Hot
- Your Lint Flap Won't Open
- Your Laundry Room is Hotter Than Usual
If you notice one or more of the red flags above, you should act fast. Flowertown chimney sweeps are fully equipped to provide a comprehensive dryer vent cleaning service for all brands of dryers, including gas, electric, and high-efficiency machines.
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Latest News Near Me Mount Pleasant, SC
Mt. Pleasant passes feasibility study for Pitt St. Bridge repairs
Webb Wrighthttps://abcnews4.com/news/local/mt-pleasant-passes-feasibility-study-for-pitt-st-bridge-repairs-landmark-historic-bridge-in-charleston-south-carolina-news-trending-topic-lowcountry-south-carolina-study-project
The Pitt Street Bridge is a staple of Mount Pleasant history, but maintaining the landmark comes at a cost. Town leaders are now examining what repairs are needed and how much they will cost.A feasibility study approved by the Mount Pleasant Bids and Purchases Committee will cost more than $318,000 and will examine issues including seawall preservation and pier improvements."I like the charm. It's usually quiet, you can bring the dogs out here, and the sunset is beautiful," said Sabrina Seely, a frequent walker...
The Pitt Street Bridge is a staple of Mount Pleasant history, but maintaining the landmark comes at a cost. Town leaders are now examining what repairs are needed and how much they will cost.
A feasibility study approved by the Mount Pleasant Bids and Purchases Committee will cost more than $318,000 and will examine issues including seawall preservation and pier improvements.
"I like the charm. It's usually quiet, you can bring the dogs out here, and the sunset is beautiful," said Sabrina Seely, a frequent walker on the Pitt Street Bridge.
The Pitt Street Bridge is a landmark, but its popularity comes with challenges.
"A lot of sinkholes are developing. If you've been out on the fishing pier, it's in rough shape. This is really an engineering study to let us know our options," said Mount Pleasant Town Councilman Daniel Brownstein.
In addition to concerns about the seawalls, Brownstein said restoration costs could be significant.
"We've heard that restoring those tabby walls might cost upwards of $15 million if you're using sort of historically appropriate materials. So that's gonna be a big challenge for us and a big choice," Brownstein said.
When asked whether repairs would be made with longevity in mind, Brownstein emphasized the importance of long-term planning.
"Are you gonna make sure that these are materials that are gonna be used so we're not spending this money five or 10 years down the road?"
"I think we need to look at the longevity of the park itself and make sure that we're using materials that are gonna really shore it up against the elements for years to come. That's gonna be a decision that the entire Town Council will need to make," Brownstein said.
The town also faces decisions regarding the fishing pier.
"To rebuild the existing fishing pier, they're gonna have to go in and look at all of the pilings underneath and in the water to make sure that they're still structurally intact. A second option is to build a new fishing pier kind of right next to the existing one. I'd prefer to use the existing footprint of the bridge for the fishing pier," Brownstein said.
The study will take several months to complete, and any approved improvements could take several years to finish.
Mount Pleasant works to update animal cruelty law
Hannah Borcherthttps://www.live5news.com/2026/10/05/mount-pleasant-works-update-animal-cruelty-law/
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCSC) — Mount Pleasant leaders are looking to strengthen the town’s animal cruelty ordinance after a case of severe neglect.Animal advocates say the new proposed ordinance would make Mount Pleasant one of the best municipalities in the state for animal care standards.“We need to do better for our animals,” Casey Brazil, an animal advocate with the South Carolina Animal Welfare Alliance, said.Animal advocates are pushing for changes to the town’s current animal cruelty o...
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCSC) — Mount Pleasant leaders are looking to strengthen the town’s animal cruelty ordinance after a case of severe neglect.
Animal advocates say the new proposed ordinance would make Mount Pleasant one of the best municipalities in the state for animal care standards.
“We need to do better for our animals,” Casey Brazil, an animal advocate with the South Carolina Animal Welfare Alliance, said.
Animal advocates are pushing for changes to the town’s current animal cruelty ordinance.
“Our old law basically said it’s against the law to be cruel to animals, but didn’t really have a lot of information about what is cruelty to animals, and so this proposed law really lays out what we expect from animal owners,” Mount Pleasant council member Daniel Brownstein said.
The proposal defines language for humane care and housing standards, creating measurable rules such as space and tethering requirements and extreme weather protections that animal control can enforce.
“What we’re trying to do is prevent animal cruelty, not just have laws that are strict after it happens,” Mayor Will Haynie said.
Haynie says a case involving neglected and mistreated dogs prompted the town to act, along with concerns from animal advocates. He says ordinance changes may only be the start.
“Next year’s budget may have to include increasing the number of animal control officers,” Haynie said.
Advocates would like to see the town go even further with mandatory microchipping and yearly registration.
“I think they’ve made some really great updates to the ordinance, but one thing we would love to see is banning the sale of pets outdoors. So that would be in parking lots, that would be at flea markets, that would be at farmer’s markets,” Brazil said.
South Carolina ranks 40th in the nation for animal protection laws, according to Animal Legal Defense Fund.
Haynie says the town is home to tens of thousands of animals and calls the ordinance update a step in the right direction to ensure proper treatment. Click here to read the full proposed ordinance here.
MPW earns 2 culture awards
Staff reporthttps://www.postandcourier.com/moultrie-news/news/mpw-earns-2-culture-awards/article_0b1a10a4-86dd-4087-9636-052b30561395.html
Mount Pleasant Waterworks (MPW) has earned two workforce culture awards for 2026: SCBIZ Best Places to Work and USA Today's Top Workplaces in the Energy and Utility Industry. Both honors are based on anonymous employee feedback.Two Awards, One Message from EmployeesMPW has been named one of South Carolina's Best Places to Work for 11 consecutive years. The SCBIZ award measures engagement, teamwork, leadership and benefits.MPW also earned a spot on USA Today's Top Workplaces list for the energy and utilit...
Mount Pleasant Waterworks (MPW) has earned two workforce culture awards for 2026: SCBIZ Best Places to Work and USA Today's Top Workplaces in the Energy and Utility Industry. Both honors are based on anonymous employee feedback.
Two Awards, One Message from Employees
MPW has been named one of South Carolina's Best Places to Work for 11 consecutive years. The SCBIZ award measures engagement, teamwork, leadership and benefits.
MPW also earned a spot on USA Today's Top Workplaces list for the energy and utility industry. This national award is based on employee surveys about leadership, trust and workplace health. It recognizes MPW as a supportive employer in a field that serves the community every day.
"While we always aim for the top spot, we all know Mount Pleasant Waterworks is truly the best place to work. It doesn’t take a trophy to prove that — it’s the dedication our team shows every day,” said General Manager Allan Clum. “I’m grateful for everything our employees do to make MPW what it is.”
Why Employees Stay at MPW
“Being recognized on the state and national stage is a tremendous honor for our organization. These awards are especially meaningful because they reflect the voices of our employees,” said Christi Fowler, MPW's human resources manager.
Each year, employees share what is working and what could be better, and leaders use that input to guide decisions across the organization. Fowler said the goal is an environment where employees feel valued, supported and heard. “We credit our less than 1 percent turnover rate to listening to our team members and enhancing their lives where we are able.”
This year's survey responses pointed to these strengths:
• A strong benefits package
• Efficient work
• Strong leadership
• A strong direction for the future
• A family-oriented culture
Mount Pleasant Waterworks serves more than 95,000 people in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. The utility provides reliable water and wastewater services, safeguards public health and protects local waterways. Mount Pleasant Waterworks is committed to delivering services of exceptional quality while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the region's water resources.
New dumpling restaurant from familiar Charleston operators to open soon in Mount Pleasant
Parker Milnerhttps://www.postandcourier.com/food/loong-yan-dim-sum-dumplings-charleston/article_e1945f3a-080f-4aff-aa04-02d77c40109f.html
MOUNT PLEASANT — Emely Yan and Yupeng Lin didn't plan on getting into the restaurant business.The couple met after both moving from their native China to the U.S. to attend college; Yan earned her master's degree in business analytics from Columbia University, while Lin got his in engineering from Drexel University.After graduating, they found themselves on a cross-country journey through the Southeast, unsure of where they would end up or what they would do once they got there. Upon landing on Charleston, a city they des...
MOUNT PLEASANT — Emely Yan and Yupeng Lin didn't plan on getting into the restaurant business.
The couple met after both moving from their native China to the U.S. to attend college; Yan earned her master's degree in business analytics from Columbia University, while Lin got his in engineering from Drexel University.
After graduating, they found themselves on a cross-country journey through the Southeast, unsure of where they would end up or what they would do once they got there. Upon landing on Charleston, a city they described as unlike any other in the U.S., they decided to open a place offering the type of dining experience that wasn't widely available at the time: dim sum.
Their restaurant, Chef Loong Dim Sum & Soup Dumplings, has been a smash hit since opening in the West Ashley space previously occupied by Old Li's in 2024. Hong Kong-style Har Gow, scallion pancakes, black truffle soup dumplings, pan-fried pork dumplings and dan dan noodles are among the favorites outlined in a 2025 review of the Savannah Highway original, which is one of the very best Chinese restaurants in the Charleston area.
Now, Yan, 28, and Lin, 32, are preparing to open their second establishment.
Loong Yan, 341 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., will debut within the next month, the owners told The Post and Courier. The restaurant, an extension of their spot at 1662 Savannah Highway, is taking over the space previously occupied by White Duck Taco Shop, which closed in 2024.
The decision to expand will help the couple service more South Carolina residents, some of whom routinely drive from Summerville and even Columbia just to dine at Chef Loong, the couple said. While the Mount Pleasant outpost may feel more upscale following a full renovation of the now-150-plus seat space, Yan and Lin said it will be just as affordable as its West Ashley sibling.
Even as food prices, especially beef, skyrocket, Yan and Lin want guests to be able to get in and out of Loong Yan for $25 to $30.
Though the menu hasn't been finalized, Loong Yan will feature a similar offering as Chef Loong, which serves pan-fried, steamed and soup dumplings, as well as noodles, scallion pancakes, bao buns and more. Beer, wine and sake will be available, and eventually, the restaurant will offer fresh-made gelato.
Yan, who leads the culinary operation, said that the Mount Pleasant spot will lean more heavily into its dim sum experience, which is driven by the dumplings she and a team of chefs painstakingly roll by hand daily. Diners who visit the new restaurant will receive a peak behind the curtain, for a glass window near the well-appointed entryway offers views of employees filling, folding and pinching the plumped half-moons.
"We want to really make sure all the customers can have a really high standard," Yan said. "I think it's the respect for the work and food that brings a really high quality of the food."
The food at both restaurants draws on Yan's upbringing in China, where her grandmother operated a noodle shop. Dumplings are a vessel for bringing people together, especially in Northern China, they said — that's why they want Loong Yan, which is equipped with two private dining rooms, including one with a circular table centered by a Lazy Susan, to be a family gathering place.
"We see (ourselves) as a part of the community who serve the local people," Lin said.
Mount Pleasant moves forward with Pitt Street Bridge feasibility study
Caroline Spikeshttps://www.live5news.com/2026/10/07/mount-pleasant-moves-forward-with-pitt-street-bridge-feasibility-study/
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCSC) — The town of Mount Pleasant is moving forward with a feasibility study for the Pitt Street Bridge.According to town officials, the goal is to find a long-lasting solution for improvements while limiting bridge closures.The study covers parts two and three of the Pitt Street project, which include the seawalls and the fishing pier.The Pitt Street Bridge is used by many in Mount Pleasant and beyond for walking dogs, bird-watching, crabbing, or sitting and enjoying the marshland.Cel...
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCSC) — The town of Mount Pleasant is moving forward with a feasibility study for the Pitt Street Bridge.
According to town officials, the goal is to find a long-lasting solution for improvements while limiting bridge closures.
The study covers parts two and three of the Pitt Street project, which include the seawalls and the fishing pier.
The Pitt Street Bridge is used by many in Mount Pleasant and beyond for walking dogs, bird-watching, crabbing, or sitting and enjoying the marshland.
Celeste and George Hayden, Awendaw community members, said they have visited the bridge for years.
“We’ve been coming here for years. Oh, we used to have our children who are now 40 through 33; we’d come and have picnics, walk it,” Celeste Hayden said.
Craig Howland, a frequent visitor from Lexington, said he tries to come down twice a month to Pitt Street Bridge for crabbing.
“I discovered this crabbing about 2020 during COVID. It’s a hot spot,” Howland said.
Craig Watson, a Mount Pleasant community member, said the bridge serves multiple purposes, as he comes out monthly for birding. He said it’s a great place for seabirds like the gulls, terns, pelicans, and cormorants, but a lot of what people come here for are the shorebirds.
“A lot of people use it for different things, and that’s one of the great things about this place right here,” Watson said.
Mike Tinkey, with the Mount Pleasant Town Council, said safety is the top priority for the project.
“The number one is safety--protect, preserve, and enhance. And ideally, we’ll enhance it in a way that gives homage, celebrates its history,” Tinkey said.
The bridge closed for a period last year for the first part of the reconstruction project, which was focused on accessibility, widening the parking and the entrance of the bridge.
The Haydens said they support efforts to preserve the structure, even if they couldn’t make their frequent trips out here.
“We understood, and we know it’s a big challenge to preserve what we’ve got. Keep at least some of the tabby walls, but they have got to do something that’s stronger to keep the water out,” they said.
Tinkey said he is hoping for protection of the tabby along the seawall, which is a combination of oysters, ashes, water and lime for stability, an older technique seen along the foundation of the bridge.
The Town of Mount Pleasant Bids and Purchases Committee approved the $318,000 study, which will allow contractors to find the best design for the seawall and the fishing pier.
“You know, this is a bridge that spans two bodies of water. We have things called hurricanes here, and we want to know that the hurricane wouldn’t breach it. We want to keep it for a future time, so by doing this, we’ll understand the magnitude of what needs to be done with what’s underground,” Tinkey said.
The timeline for any future closure has not been decided when construction comes. The study must be completed within six months after receiving approval this week.
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