Pendleton King Park Remains Closed Months After Storm Helene Damage
AUGUSTA, Ga. — More than six months after Tropical Storm Helene swept through Augusta, Pendleton King Park remains closed, leaving local residents eager for answers about when they can return to one of the city’s most cherished green spaces.
The 64-acre park, known for its towering trees, nature trails, and community events, was hit especially hard by the storm that passed through on September 27. According to the Pendleton King Park Foundation, the sheer number of trees surrounding the park led to widespread damage and serious safety concerns.
“Pendleton King Park, like so many other places in Augusta, was ravished by the storm,” said Foundation Chairman Rob Dennis.
Following the storm, the Georgia Forestry Commission conducted a thorough assessment of the park’s condition. Officials determined that 267 trees required attention, with 153 of them needing to be removed entirely due to the risk they posed to public safety.
Efforts to clean up the park began shortly after the assessment. Volunteer groups, along with FEMA crews and city staff, worked together under a plan to divide the park into sections and begin clearing debris. The cleanup effort started at the top of the park and continued down toward Lake Elizabeth, a central feature of the park.
“Steve Castle and the FEMA groups came in along with the city, and we came up with a strategy to divide the park into sections to start clearing out all the debris,” Dennis said.
Despite these efforts, the park remains closed until FEMA completes its work and officials confirm the area is safe for public use. There is currently no estimated reopening date.
Dennis emphasized the importance of Pendleton King Park to the local community, calling it “a jewel for the city of Augusta” and a space filled with nostalgic memories for visitors of all ages.
While the community waits for the gates to reopen, park officials say they are doing everything they can to restore the park and ensure it is safe for everyone to enjoy once again.
Updates on the park’s status will be shared as more information becomes available.
