Volunteers needed for Abernathy Boardwalk Re-decking

The City of Clemson is seeking volunteers for the Abernathy Boardwalk Re-decking Community Rebuild project this coming March. After serving the Clemson community for nearly 15 years, the wooden boardwalks of the Abernathy Lakefront Park have become worn and weathered. According to Ron Stewart of the City of Clemson’s Department of Public Works, “The time has come to do some much needed maintenance in the way of replacing decaying wood. We now have the opportunity to replace the decking with composite material, rather than treated wood, which will significantly improve the lifespan of the walkways.” Two years ago, in preparation for a future rebuild, a Public Works crew replaced some of the weathered decking with a few composite material samples and left them to endure the elements. When the time to select and order materials arrived, the samples that had been in place for two years were compared to brand new samples; the selected Trex samples, though separated by two years of exposure to the elements, were nearly identical in appearance. The City is confident that this Trex material, which Lowe’s is providing at a generous discount, will ensure the beauty and durability of the Abernathy boardwalks for many years to come. However, while the generosity of local sponsors is essential, the assistance of community members is also needed. During Clemson University’s 2018 Spring Break (March 19th through 24th), the City is seeking volunteers from the community, students and residents alike, to donate a few hours or days of their time to the Abernathy Boardwalk Re-decking project. Each of the six days will be divided into two shifts, 8am to 12pm and 1pm to 5pm, and volunteers are welcome to sign up for one shift or multiple shifts and/or multiple days. Positions are available for a variety of skill levels and abilities; however, to avoid disproportionate staffing, a limited number of volunteers will be able to sign up for each position on any given shift. Volunteers wishing to work the same shift(s) and/or same position are strongly encouraged to sign up at the same time. When signing up, if the position you prefer is unavailable, please check if that position is available during a different shift or day of the week. Volunteers working on the construction crew may be using power tools and will be required to read and sign a release form before beginning their shifts. Anyone who wishes to volunteer and is under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the release form; no one under 18 will be allowed to operate the saw. Volunteers must wear closed-toe shoes (work boots if possible) and are STRONGLY encouraged to wear long pants and long sleeves. We understand that the weather in March can be unpredictable, but given the nature of the work and the environment in which volunteers will be working, covered extremities provide better protection. The City will also have an EMS crew on site in case of emergencies and a designated crew member monitoring and enforcing safety policies. Lunch and a commemorative t-shirt will be provided to volunteers. However, please note that we cannot guarantee a t-shirt for those signing up after Friday, March 2nd. The City is working to secure parking for all volunteers, and details will be provided as the information is finalized. Electronic sign-ups are open now on the City of Clemson website, www.cityofclemson.org. Mark your calendars and sign up now to help restore this beloved Clemson park.