Politics & Government

Popular Park Gets Longer Hours

Vote: With new hours, will you visit more often?

has some of the area’s most attractive views, and sunset might be one of the best times to soak up its Lowcountry vista.

One problem: The park closes at 5 p.m. some evenings, just a bit before the sun crosses the horizon.

But this week the town council took the first step toward keeping the park open until 11 p.m.

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“Folks from out of town have driven up … it might be 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. at night, and you want to see a sunset, but unfortunately the gates are locked,” said Councilman Chris Nickels, who presented the resolution to change the park hours.

Since the park opened, its hours have been linked to the gift shop, Nickels said. When the shops staff closes for the night, they lock the large sliding gate. The shop’s hours are seasonal, so they change several times a year, but do not extend beyond 10 p.m.

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“When there is more daylight, the gate is open for longer hours,” said Town Administrator Eric DeMoura. “It was just easier, but it doesn't have to be that way.”

Since Mount Pleasant Police man a substation at the park until midnight, it shouldn’t be a problem for officers to lock the gate each evening, DeMoura said.

“And because of the location of the substation… they have an excellent view,” DeMoura said. “The officer on duty will clear the pier, lock the bathrooms and lock the gates.”

Nickels said the move makes it easier for residents and out-of-towners to enjoy the pier and its evening views.

“It’s just another thing that says 'folks, come on over to our park,’” Nickels said.


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