Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Park suffered severe damage due to Tropical Storm Helene

 

TRYON—Harmon Field suffered severe damage from flooding and winds caused by Tropical Storm Helene in September. The park was partially reopened in mid-October; however, several sections remain closed to the public.

The boardwalk and screened shed along the North Pacolet River were completely lost, as was the decking on the back of the log cabin. The two lower barns also suffered major damage, and the soccer fields, open-air gym, and other sections of the park were heavily impacted.

Visitors can currently use the open-air basketball court and parking area, tennis courts, and walking track. The dog park, ball field B, and a gravel parking area by the riding rings are also open. Due to safety concerns, all closed sections are strictly off-limits to the public.

The Harmon Field Board of Supervisors recently voted to not allow any rentals until March 2025, as much work still needs to be done. 

“While progress may seem slow, I want to assure our visitors that we are working tirelessly to restore Harmon Field to its normal state, if not even better,” said Harmon Field Superintendent Brad Gordon. “We are working to meet the requirements for FEMA funding to help rebuild parts of the park, so we are making sure everything is handled correctly.”

Gordon said that while they have not hired construction contractors yet, the town is working with architect John Walters to ensure the rebuilding of structures and decking is ADA-compliant. It has also hired S&ME out of South Carolina to test soil on the property and will let bids for more debris removal once those results are in.

“In the coming months, we will call on volunteers to help us and share updates and volunteer opportunities through social media and the Tryon Daily Bulletin. I want to emphasize that none of this would be possible without the support of our community. Your encouragement, volunteerism, and partnership are crucial to our success.”

Gordon said anyone with questions or concerns about clean-up efforts can contact him directly at harmonfield@tryonnc.gov.