WINNSBORO – A groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation of Fortune Springs Park on Sept. 12 was the start of something big.
The project’s design finalization and construction is funded by $2,715,569.90 from SCOR’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Stormwater Infrastructure Program (ASIP). An existing stormwater pond will be restored, new 24-inch drainage pipe and structures will be installed, plus improvements will be made to vegetative swales in the park.
Fortune Springs Park was established immediately following the Revolutionary War and acquired by the Town in 1880. The park includes walking paths, tennis courts, a County-run swimming pool, and an existing stormwater pond.
Severe flooding occurs during rain events and has led to erosion and sediment control issues, making portions of the park inaccessible and unsafe. Additionally, stormwater runoff routinely impacts the historic Old Armory Building, which sits adjacent to the park.
“The Fortune Springs Stormwater Project represents a major investment in the future of our town. This initiative not only addresses long-standing flooding and erosion issues but also preserves and enhances one of Winnsboro’s most historic and beloved parks,” Mayor Demetrius Chatman said.
Representatives from the South Carolina Office of Resilience (SCOR) spoke at the event along with Chatman, and Hasan Ismail, the Water Resources Manager.
The civil engineering firm, McCormick Taylor, is handling the construction administration and engineering of the project.
