ROCK HILL, S.C.,None — Eyewitness News got an exclusive tour on Monday of a local park that is closed thanks to a violent and powerful storm.
Our camera went along as Rock Hill officials with Parks, Recreation and Tourism unlocked the gates to River Park to survey the damage.
The park, located off of Red River Road, was closed on Friday following a severe thunderstorm that left major damage.
"It's definitely hurt the park," said Stan Senn with Parks, Recreation and Tourism. "It's going to take us a little while to clean it all up."
Several Rock Hill officials hiked the trails on Monday, ducking under dangling limbs and stepping over fallen debris. The main trail is supposed to be handicap-accessible, but it's not anymore.
The biggest problem is a huge cottonwood tree that fell across the boat launch area. The tree took out a concrete water quality testing facility on its way down, and heavy chunks of cement and rebar are left hanging on the side of the building.
"People were calling and asking why they couldn't get their canoes and kayaks in here this weekend. I'm sure we had a lot of disappointed people," Senn said.
After Monday's survey, the city will have to find out how much of the damage is covered by insurance. River Park has flooded several times before, but has never experienced this kind of destruction of trails, fixtures and pathways.
The city may have a fund to help pay for cleanup and repairs, but federal money could also be used too, if FEMA is asked to help cover the damages.
Those decisions are still days away, and the reopening of River Park is likely still weeks away.
WSOC
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