MYRTLE BEACH, SC- City leaders continue to work towards revitalization and one area they want to spruce up is Chapin Memorial Park. Myrtle Beach City Manager John Pedersen asked Landscape Architect David Utterback if he was interested in taking on the project.
” It’s a valuable piece of property its on a main highway, high visibility, has shade,” said Utterback.
Utterback told News 13 he was thrilled because the park has such potential; however, he knows the challenges he faces.
According to Utterback, the park has a problem with homeless people and it deters families from visiting. While he knows the park is a public space, his goal is to make it more safe.
“We’re not trying to get rid of the homeless. What we’re trying to do is make the park more secure and attract more people,” stated Utterback.
After performing a survey analysis of the site, he determined the park also has a problem with noise from traffic. His plan includes a wall that will act as a sound barrier between Kings Highway and the park .
In addition, Utterback said the park has too many trees and it prevents grass from growing.
He plans to build a direct access from Chapin Memorial Library to the park and limit the number of entrances to prevent people from using the park as a cut through. His design also incorporates lighting around the perimeter and wider sidewalks.
Utterback estimates the project to cost $2.7 million.
“I’m a dreamer, but also I’m a very practical, frugal person,” he stated.
Utterback hopes to reuse much of the materials, but he also wants the park to appeal to millennial. His design will need to go to City Council for review.
