Pickett Bridge Recreation Area’s latest phase nears completion

MOUNT PLEASANT, SC (June 16, 2006) – One of the best kept secrets in Mount Pleasant – The Pickett Bridge Recreation Area – has long delighted fishermen, bird watchers and sport enthusiasts with unmatched and breathtaking views of the Intercoastal Waterway and the Charleston Harbor. Dedicated to Dr. Otis Pickett, a faithful former medical servant of the community, the recreation park located at the end of Pitt Street in the Old Village has undergone several enhancements phased in over the past five years. The latest improvement has substantially changed the look of the boardwalk.

More than 30 palm trees now line the causeway and a new railing has replaced a worn and weather dated fence. Mount Pleasant Waterworks is extending a water line to a new drinking fountain and Mount Pleasant Public Services is completing the improvements in house. Public Services Director Jody Peele is overseeing the progress. “We have installed six benches, the railing is in place and we are remodeling the 2,000 ft long asphalt-covered causeway by removing some of the existing road bed and planting grass,” he said. “We have preserved the paved pedestrian path and installed low volume decorative lights along the jetty.”

As part of a 100% Ocean and Coastal Resource Management matching grant, the current $50,000 enhancement grant is the latest in a series of OCRM’s grants. Project Manager Kevin Mitchell highlighted OCRM grant coordinator Rob Mikell’s involvement in the ongoing improvement plan. “This collaboration has benefited the residents of Mount Pleasant. OCRM’s continued commitment to coastal access in Mount Pleasant should be commended,” said Mitchell.

Our objective is to improve the quality of this water access facility,” said Town Administrator Mac Burdette. “Prior to now, it was a pretty harsh environment. Our improvements are designed to compliment the beautiful setting. Considering that we had only about $50,000 to complete this project, our staff has done an outstanding job.”