South Sound boardwalk repaired

The South Sound boardwalk has been repaired after portions of the popular community site suffered severe damage during the passage of Hurricane Beryl in early July.

The damaged boardwalk was highlighted by the Cayman Compass last week and repair work began last Friday, following queries on the delay in having the boardwalk restored.

Sixteen spots on the $1.3 million boardwalk were in need of repair. Some sections had been deemed too dangerous to traverse due to large gaps in the warped planks and had been cordoned off with orange safety cones.

The Compass has requested the cost of the repairs and is awaiting a response.

Diana Jimenez Garcia, a South Sound resident and frequent boardwalk user, had expressed safety concerns as she and others who use the boardwalk were forced to walk close to the busy South South Road to avoid the damaged areas.

Jimenez Garcia welcomed the repairs, which were completed over the weekend by the Public Works Department.

“Everyone is very happy that it was done in three days,” she said.

The Ministry of Planning and Infrastructure, in addressing the cause of the initial damage, said although the boardwalk was built to “high standards, the intensity of Hurricane Beryl caused significant strain on many parts of the island’s infrastructure, including the boardwalk”.

“The damage resulted from a combination of powerful winds and tidal surges, which, despite the boardwalk’s sturdy design, led to some areas requiring immediate attention. While we understand that the boardwalk is a beloved recreational area, it was temporarily lower on the priority list,” it said.

Jimenez Garcia said she was grateful the situation was highlighted and addressed.

“I and the rest of the people that use the boardwalk have expressed their gratitude for this quick fix. To be honest, I was very impressed with the quick turnaround of the job after all these months waiting,” she said.

Jimenez Garcia, on behalf of herself and the community, sent a special thank you to everyone who made the repairs possible.

Infrastructure and Planning Minister Jay Ebanks, when contacted for comment, welcomed the positive response from the community.

“I am pleased to have the boardwalk repaired, and equally pleased to learn of the South Sound’s positive reception of the boardwalk project. This definitely highlights our commitment to enhancing public spaces,” he said.

The minister thanked everyone who contributed to making the project a reality.

“I would also like to thank the people of South Sound for their patience and cooperation. We look forward to seeing the boardwalk continuing to be a cherished part of South Sound community life,” he added.

The area of erosion near the end of the boardwalk affecting the road was incorporated into the overall repair plan and was also addressed.