Lake Lure Town News Summary - 3/16/26

Lake Lure Town News Summary

This latest summary will include the following items in this order:

• Lake levels (photo credit: Jason Parker, WSPA)
• Lake Lure Reopening Plan
• Shoreline Debris Removal Updates
• Cell Tower Updates
• New Office Hours, Boat Permit Sales, and Organizational Updates
• Collegiate Rowing Teams Arrive in Lake Lure
• Rumble 2026 - What a Success
• Plans for Refilling the Lake
• Lake Status
• Authorized Contractor Information
• Plans for Opening Lake Lure Beach
• Lake Water Quality Results
• Fishery Updates
• In the News – Latest News Coverage on Lake Lure
• Links to Town Council Meeting Summaries
• 2026 Town Board Appointments 
• Morse Park Restoration, Dredging Updates, Shoreline Stabilization
• 2026 Lake Use Regulations - Boat Permit Updates
• New Disc Golf Map 
• Washburn Marina Updates
• Lake Lure Dam Updates
• Roadway Updates
• Financial Updates
• Information on Visiting the Town of Lake Lure
• Travel and restaurant guide
• 2026 Calendar 
• and more...

 

TOGETHER WE RISE!

     

      

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lake Lure is on the rise and the current lake level is 986.2 Mean Sea Level (MSL), just 4.3 feet below full pond which is 990.5 MSL. (Updated 3/25/26.)

We are coming back strong and are overcoming the devastation of Hurricane Helen!

 

LAKE LURE REOPENING PLAN

 

The Town of Lake Lure continues to move forward with preparations for a smooth and safe reopening of the lake as water levels steadily rise this spring. For those who are hoping to get your boats back in the lake before it officially opens, please review the reopening plan here.

 

 SHORELINE DEBRIS REMOVAL IS UNDERWAY!

 

The North Carolina State Mission Assigned Recovery Task (SMART) Program contractors are working around the lake. 

• Public Works Crews removed a about 400 cubic yards of debris earlier this month.
• SMART Program Contractors have a skimmer and will be making rounds and collecting debris in the water and within about 5 feet from the shoreline.
• SMART crews removed approximately 800 cubic yards of debris last week.  (Updated 3/25/26)
• Crews will make additional rounds around the lake as the lake continues to rise. 

 

CELL TOWER UPDATES

 

It's Here!

   

Cell Tower Antenna Installation - Photos Courtesy of Commissioner Patrick Bryant

 

The Town of Lake Lure, NC has been working to install a cell tower on the old camp ground off Boys Camp Road. Our Community Development Team has been diligent in their efforts to work through multiple challenges, including delays caused by Hurricane Helene. Thanks to their persistence, we are pleased to report that the cell tower has arrived! You can see the tower here!

• The cell tower is in the final week of calibration.
• The tower will have service for AT&T and T-Mobile users.  Service is anticipated shortly. 
• Verizon application still not received despite continued efforts to encourage their participation. 
• Questions: Please email any questions to Communications@townoflakelure.com
• Verizon customers may reach out the company to request that they commit to being a carrier on the tower.

 

NEW OFFICE HOURS, BOAT PERMIT SALES, AND ORGANIZATIONAL UPDATES

 

 

The Town of Lake Lure is implementing several organizational updates designed to improve efficiency, strengthen coordination across departments, and ensure the continued delivery of high-quality services to residents and visitors. These changes were approved by Town Council and will take effect Monday, March 16, 2026.

The updates modernize the Town’s organizational internal structure while maintaining all existing services and programs. Residents can expect the same services they currently rely upon, delivered with improved coordination and administrative support. 

Please note the new office hours, boat permit sales locations, advisory board meeting locations, and organizational updates highlighted here.

New Administrative Office Hours

Beginning March 16, 2026, Town administrative offices will be open:

Monday – Friday

8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Town Hall remains at The Landings at 920 Buffalo Shoals Road, Lake Lure, NC 28746. 

 

Boat Permit Location Change

• Starting March 16, 2026, boat permits sold through the Town of Lake Lure will be sold at The Landings, located at:

920 Buffalo Creek Road, Lake Lure, NC 28746

• To allow staff and IT to transition operations to the new location, boat permits will not be sold on Friday, March 13, 2026.

• Permit sales will resume at The Landings beginning Monday, March 16, 2026.

• Additional options for boat permit sales can be located here.

 

Advisory Board Meeting Locations

• All Advisory Board Meetings will be held at the at The Landings, located at:

920 Buffalo Creek Road, Lake Lure, NC 28746

• This location will serve as the new meeting location for the Lake Advisory Board and Parks and Recreation Board.

 

Enhanced Emergency Services Coordination

The Town has establish a unified Emergency Services Department led by an Emergency Services Director.

• The department will include two divisions: Police and Fire & Emergency Management.
• This structure will strengthen coordination across public safety services while maintaining the professional standards and operational independence of each division.

 

Parks, Recreation, and Lake Services

The Town will transition the responsibilities of the Parks, Recreation, and Lake Department to other departments that align closely with those services. This change will allow the Town to streamline operations while ensuring all services continue without interruption.

• Boat permits and related services will now be handled by the Finance Department.

• Lake enforcement will be overseen by the Police Division through a Lake Enforcement and Safety Officer and will serve as the staff liaison to the Lake Advisory Board.

• The Lake Advisory Board will continue serving in their advisory roles to Town Council.

• Parks and Trails maintenance will be managed by the Public Works Department.

• The Parks and Recreation Board and Lake Advisory Board will continue serving in their advisory roles to Town Council.

• The Community Development Environmental Review Specialist will provide guidance to Public Works on the development of Parks and Trails and will serve as the staff liaison to the Parks and Recreation Board.

 

Public Services Realignment

The Town is also strengthening its ability to deliver major infrastructure and recovery projects.

• The current Public Services Director will transition into a Project Manager role focused on capital projects, disaster recovery, and grant-funded initiatives.
• Operational leadership within Public Services will continue under a Public Services Director, promoted from within the department.

COLLEGIATE ROWING RETURNS TO LAKE LURE

 

 

We are pleased to share that collegiate rowing teams have returned to Lake Lure for spring training through the end of March. So far we have had teams from Georgetown University, Rhode Island, Stoney Brook, and Columbia University. We’re also looking forward to welcoming upcoming teams from St. Lawrence University and Georgia Tech this month.

These teams have received special permission to use the lake and will operate under close supervision during their time here. Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure is coordinating their visit and hosting the teams this year.

It is an inspiring sight to see rowers gliding across the water as some of the first vessels to return to our beloved lake. The Town of Lake Lure is honored to support their return and the continued partnership with collegiate rowing programs.

Read more here

 

CAROLINA CLIMBERS' COALITION - RUMBLE 2026

 

 

Celebrating the Rumble 2026 – March 6-8, 2026

Mayor Carol Pritchett welcomed the climbers back for the 10th Annual Rumble. She extended a heartfelt THANK YOU to the Carolina Climbers Coalition for organizing the event. Mayor Pritchett shared "The gathering was especially meaningful this year. After the challenges our community faced following Hurricane Helene, there were moments when many of our parks and trails looked very different from the places we all know and love."

But the climbers showed up and demonstrated the very best of community. Members of the Carolina Climbers Coalition and volunteers from across the region have gave more than 10,000 hours of service helping restore trails, care for our parks, and bring these outdoor spaces back to life.

That kind of commitment says something powerful about who you the climbers are - stewards of the land and true partners to our town.

Special thanks to several leaders whose dedication helped make this work possible:

• AJ Jackson, President of the Carolina Climbers Coalition
• Mike Reardon, Executive Director
• Alycia Andrade, Marketing and Events Director
• Frances Schueren, SC Board Representative, Carolina Climbers Coalition

Their leadership, along with the efforts of so many volunteers, has helped guide an extraordinary restoration effort and made the return of the Rumble possible.

Because of the volunteer efforts, people can once again hike our trails, explore the cliffs, and experience the natural beauty that makes Lake Lure so special.

The efforts of the Carolina Climbers Coalition has helped ensure that our landscape will continue to inspire future generations of adventurers.

This weekend, we celebrated more than just the 10th Annual Rumble. We celebrated resilience. We celebrated partnership. And we celebrated the incredible community that forms when people who love the outdoors come together to protect it.

To everyone who traveled to Lake Lure, to the volunteers, organizers, and members of the Carolina Climbers Coalition – THANK YOU for standing with the Town of Lake Lure, NC, for believing in this place, and for coming back!

 

From the Carolina Climbers Coalition

What a weekend! Y'all made Rumble 2026 one to remember for so many reasons. We heard your stoke for being back at the Bald and back in Hickory Nut Gorge, and the locals felt the love and positivity you brought to the region this weekend. Thank you for showing up and giving back through your participation in The Rumble, and by visiting Lake Lure. ICYMI, Rutherford County has released its Spring pocket guide with loads of helpful information for planning your next stay in the area. Check it out here.

 

Your participation in the Rumble also raised major support for the CCC's newest land acquisition - Lower Ghost Town. Fundraising proceeds from this year's event totaled over $14,000 for this project, with an additional $1000 going to Rutherford Outdoor Coalition for their incredible stewardship and Helene recovery work in Rutherford County. Thank you!

 

A HUGE thank you to our sponsors who made this event possible!

Fox Mountain Guides, BlocHaven, Fox Cabins New Zealand, Triangle Rock Club, Mast General Store, Bluewater Ropes, FirstHand Climbing, La Sportiva, REI Asheville
Ground Up Sales: Rab, Petzl, Organic, SCARPA, Big Agnes, Town of Lake Lure, Chimney Rock Management, Chimney Rock State Park, Coastal Climbing, Sterling Rope, Wild Country, Evolv, KAYA Climbing, Second Gear, Mtn Dog Tees, Appalachian Climbing School, Professional Stage Productions, WhistleHop Brewing, Guayaki/Yerba Madre, Cultivate Climbing

Photos

Big thanks to our amazing volunteer photographers who captured incredible shots of everyone in action throughout the weekend. All photos can be viewed here. Feel free to share photos but please credit the photographer. If you have photos you'd like to share, drop them in the Community Photo Dump folder.

Results

Rumble results can be viewed here. If you placed in the top 3 in your category but left before Saturday night, please reach out to Alycia at aandrade@carolinaclimbers.org to make arrangements to get your prize. 

Feedback

We want to know what you loved about 2026 Rumble at the Bald and what we could have done better. Please fill out this feedback survey. On March 30th, we'll choose one lucky survey participant who will win a CCC prize package. 

Upcoming Events

We hope to see you at an upcoming event. Save the dates for the following:

• March 22: Jump Off Rock Access Celebration - Laurel Park, NC
• April 11-12: Ghost Town Access Celebration campout with Silver City Campground - Chimney Rock, NC - more info and event page coming soon; follow us on social and via our newsletter for updates! 
• May 23: North Carolina Climbers Festival - Pinnacle, NC

Thank you for being part of our community. We can't wait to Rumble again with y'all in 2027.

CCC Team

 

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO REFILL THE LAKE  

 

Town officials emphasize that refilling Lake Lure will be a slow and carefully managed process. The lake level cannot be raised by more than approximately one foot per day, and progress will depend heavily on rainfall and weather conditions. While we cannot yet confirm exactly when the lake will return to full pond, it is hoped the lake may be able to reopen for public use by Memorial Weekend 2026, depending on conditions.

 

THE LAKE IS NOT OPEN FOR PUBLIC USE AT THIS TIME 

 

The Town of Lake Lure and all businesses are open and welcoming visitors; however, the lake itself remains closed to all unauthorized personnel. 

• The lake is not open for public use and only authorized contractors and staff may access the Lake.
• Currently, accessing the lake is not safe due to the lower lake levels.
• Do not enter the lake or the lakebed for everyone's safety, and to avoid fines. 
• Town officials will be sharing a timeline for lake access for residents and property owners in the coming weeks.
• Boats will need to be brought back into the lake with authorized contractors. 

 

CONTRACTOR INFORMATION

 

Only approved contractors may access properties from the lake, by boat or barge, but any contractor or property owner may work on lake structures (with permits) if accessing from land.  This includes sea wall construction or restoration (again, with required permits).   You may emailkmartin@townoflakelure.com"> kmartin@townoflakelure.com with any questions.

Click here for additional information on contractors.

 

WHEN WILL THE LAKE AND LAKE LURE BEACH REOPEN?   

 

The Town of Lake Lure remains hopeful that we will be able to reopen the lake and the Lake Lure Beach in the late May 2026.   The target date for opening Lake Lure to the public is Memorial Weekend 2026.   

 

LAKE WATER QUALITY

 

Please see the attached water sample results from January 2026.  We are pleased to report that the latest results are all within acceptable limits. 

You may review the updates spreadsheet, which illustrates all the water sample data received by the Town of Lake Lure.

This data is current through 1/28/26.

 

FISHERY UPDATE

Fishery Recovery Remains a Priority

While the lake’s refilling is a major milestone, the Town recognizes recoverable impacts to Lake Lure’s fishery. Ongoing habitat improvements are underway, and long-term ecological recovery will continue to be guided by years of professional fishery studies.

The State is restocking trout upstream. The Town is in the midst of adding recycled Christmas trees to the lake for the fish habita and will be adding thread-fin shad  in April/May, depending on the temperatures.
 

The Town will be conducting a fish study later this spring and that will inform next steps. 

The lake is very deep in several areas (90 feet) and the fish migrated to those deeper areas when the lake was lowered. 

Many fisherman have reported excellent results from fishing off their docks. They have reported that the fish are plentiful!

 For more information, please see the Lake Lure Fishery Update.

 

IN THE NEWS

New

 

https://wlos.com/news/local/lake-lure-rumble-bouldering-festival-clumbers-carolina-climbers-coalition-hurricane-helene-landslides-competition-event-milestones-trails-community-pond-builds

 

 

1. Lake Lure sees progress as community recovers from storm damage

 

Taylor Farmer

LAKE LURE, S.C. (WSPA) — Lake Lure town leaders said they’re excited for the future as they make progress rebuilding from the devastation brought by Hurricane Helene.

It’s been about a year and a half since Hurricane Helene tore through western North Carolina, and while evidence of the storm’s destruction can still be seen across Lake Lure, town leaders said the community is finally beginning to feel a sense of normalcy again.

Hurricane Helene left Lake Lure in ruins. After the storm, many wondered when, or if, things would ever return to normal.

“I’ve never seen anything quite like it. Watching that river take homes and businesses and literally wash it into the lake. It was scary,” said Chris Trusz, part owner of 828 Sports Bar and Grill.

Nearly a year and a half later, signs of progress are evident.

“This is such an exciting time for us. It really is as you can see the lake is coming up,” said Lake Lure Mayor Carol Pritchett.

The lake rising is a lifeline for the area.

“Every business here relies on tourism. Having that — the heartbeat — fill back up, I can’t overstate it,” Trusz said.

After the storm, several restaurants and businesses were forced to close their doors.

But now, some are reopening.

And others, like 828 Sports Bar and Grill, are brand new.

As the lake continues to refill, cleanup efforts are still ongoing throughout the town as crews are also rebuilding other key parts of the community, including a new marina and boardwalk.

But according to Pritchett, more help and more funding are still needed to fully rebuild.

“We have major infrastructure needs. Our dam, our sewer system and our collection system, and our wastewater treatment plant just to name three huge ones. Those will come either from FEMA, but we also reach out to other entities to secure grants,” Pritchett said.

Despite those challenges, a tremendous amount of progress has already been made.

And through it all, the mayor said the community’s resilience and strength have not gone unnoticed.

“They’ve been very patient — more patient than a lot of times that you could probably have a reasonable expectation that they would be,” Pritchett said.

Pritchett said Lake Lure is expected to reach full pond by Memorial Day, when they hope to reopen the lake for visitors. The water has also been tested weekly and shows no signs of contamination.

While many people have asked about the fish, officials said they were not harmed by the storm, as some parts of the lake reach depths of nearly 90 feet. The lake will also be restocked as part of its normal seasonal process.

Lake Lure officials said they have several events going on now until Memorial Day Calendar | Lake Lure North Carolina

 

2. Hundreds of climbers descend on Lake Lure for the annual Rumble bouldering festival: Watch the newscast here.

 

by Rian Stockett

Sat, March 7, 2026 at 10:34 PM

MARCH 7, 2026 - Hundreds of climbers are in Lake Lure for the annual bouldering competition and festival, the Rumble. (Photo: WLOS Staff)

LAKE LURE, N.C. (WLOS) — Hundreds of climbers are in Lake Lure for the annual bouldering competition and festival, the Rumble.

"To see it coming back up and revitalized, almost, it's still not 100%, but seeing everybody out here and trying to put in an effort to make it what it used to be is very, very awesome, and it's very important too," said Joe Barfield, a climber attending the event.

Rumbling Bald, the climbing area used for the event, was damaged by landslides after Helene.

TOWN OF LAKE LURE BEGINS REFILLING LAKE, AIM FOR MEMORIAL WEEKEND OPENING

"As soon as the State Park had done their assessment and initial cleanup, we were out here doing what we could," said Frances Schueren, the South Carolina Board Representative for the Carolina Climbers Association.

Organizer of The Rumble, the Carolina Climbers Coalition is the organizer of the event, has been working to rehabilitate trails and climbing areas that have been damaged by Helene throughout the region.

Lake Lure Mayor Carol Pritchett says the organization has contributed over 10,000 hours of service to the town.

MARCH 7, 2026 - Hundreds of climbers are in Lake Lure for the annual bouldering competition and festival, the Rumble. (Photo: Frances Schueren)

"We're joyful that they're here, and we're all, you know, we're so thankful for what they've done. And so this is sort of gives credence to what they've done, but it also gives credence to the fact that Lake Lure is getting back to where it was," Pritchett said.

Pritchett said that this competition and festival is the first big event the town has hosted since Helene.

Mayor Pritchett says that a few of the milestones Lake Lure had to achieve to host the event were to make sure that the climbing and trails were safe.

MARCH 7, 2026 - Hundreds of climbers are in Lake Lure for the annual bouldering competition and festival, the Rumble. (Photo: WLOS Staff)

"Well, for this part, of course, the climbing and the trails had to be safe for them to be on. And that was something, of course, was determined in concert with Carolina Coalition Climbers, that it was with also our Fire Department Emergency Management Department, because that's the number one thing, of course, we want everybody to be safe when they're climbing. So we had to reach that. Everything had to be determined to be safe for them to come," Pritchett said in part.

The return of this event was not just a milestone for the Lake Lure community but also for the climbers.

"Rumbling Bald is really, really special to me. It’s the first place I ever climbed outside, and it was also just the place I climbed the most. It’s an hour from my house, it’s the closest really good climbing to where I live," Schueren said.

RISING AFTER HELENE: LOCAL BUSINESSES ANTICIPATE ECONOMIC BOOST AS LAKE REFILLS

For other climbers, it's about the community the event builds.

"It definitely means a lot to see everybody getting back out and climbing together and experiencing the climbing community and all the great climbing out here," Barfield said.

Mayor Pritchett also said that she believes the lake is 10 feet below full pond.

 

3.  Town targets Memorial Day weekend for grand reopening of Lake Lure - Watch the newscast here.

 

BY Courtney Davis Charlotte

UPDATED 12:00 PM ET Mar. 13, 2026 PUBLISHED 11:12 AM ET Mar. 13, 2026

LAKE LURE, N.C. — The town of Lake Lure is getting ready to splash and swim in the lake once again.

The town recently announced a grand reopening celebration at the beachfront area of the lake on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend.

What You Need To Know

The town of Lake Lure is planning a grand reopening for Memorial Day weekend to celebrate.  The Army Corps of Engineers worked for more than a year to clean out debris and sediment washed down by the storm, and the lake is being refilled The announcement comes nearly a year and a half after Hurricane Helene devastated the area, and debris from Bat Cave and Chimney Rock Village flooded the lake.

Since then, the Army Corps of Engineers has worked to clear the debris and sediment from the lake bed.

Recently, the town announced they had started the process of refilling the lake, after completing repairs at the town’s dam.

The town says the lake is at 982.7 feet mean sea level, and they have to reach 990.5 feet mean sea level for full pond.

 

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING UPDATE

 

The Town of Lake Lure began the comprehensive planning process in the summer of 2025, in partnership with the Foothills Regional Commission.  Since that time, we have held four in person public input sessions.  One was a virtual session, one was in a traditional format at "The Landings", our temporary Town Hall, and two were held in an open Round Table Forum at the same location.  

• Additionally, multiple focus groups have been held.  One was with the Lake Advisory Board and one with the Parks and Recreation Board.  A third focus group session is being held with the Planning and Zoning Board. .  Two additional focus groups will be held with residents and staff.   

• An online public input survey has been shared in various forums. 690 of Lake Lure's residents have completed the survey.  The Foothills Regional Commission advises that this is a very good response rate compared with other municipalities. It is difficult to get high survey responses these days, but for a Town of our size they are very pleased. The vast majority of responses are from full and part-time residents. 

 A report will be prepared in the spring compiling all of the public input later in 2026. This report will be widely shared once it is published. 

 

MEETING THE MARK

 

 

• You may review a summary of the Marine Commission Meeting Summary - Tuesday, March 10, 2026   

• You may review a summary of the Town Council Regular Meeting Summary - Tuesday, March 10, 2026   

• You may review a summary of the Lake Lure Town Council Work Session and Action Meeting from Wednesday, February 25, 2025. 

• You may review a summary of the Lake Lure Town Council Special meeting from Friday, February 27, 2026.

• Review the March Town Meeting Calendar here.  

 

 

BOARD APPOINTMENTS

 

 

The following Board Members will be serving in the new Board Year beginning March 2026.

• ABC Board 
  • Thank you to the existing members currently serving as regular members: 1. Trace Boswell 2. Bob Cassano 3. Richard Sayles 4. Esther Lusk 5. Peter O’leary
  • No New Members

• Board of Adjustment/Lake Structure Appeals Board 
  • Thank you to the existing members currently serving as regular members: 1. Al Joyner (Chairperson) 2. David Lusk   3. Mark Windfeldt 4. Melvin Owensby 5. Kimberly Sailes and Alternate Members 6. Tony Steffell 7. Kathie Hatfield
  • Welcome New Member - Andrew Knowles 
• Lake Advisory Board 
  • Thank you to the existing members serving as regular members: 1. Jim Lemmons (Chairperson) 2. David Lusk 3. Gary Hasenfus 4. Mark Helms 5. Sonya Ledford Pitts  6. Richard Sayles
  • Welcome New Member - Michael Gibbs
• Parks & Recreation Board 
  • Thank you to the existing members 1. Robin Worcester (Chairperson) 2. Dan Bragdon 3. Larry Czajkoski 4. Matt Manzi  5. Ozzie McFarland 6. Jennifer Dittmer-Vivolo 7. Debbie Warren 8. Dan Gorman 9. Maddie Bartosh (Americorps Member)

• Short Term Rental Advisory Board 
  • Thank you to the existing members serving as regular members: 1. Scott Martin (Chairperson) 2. Beth Heer 3. Thomasina Coile 4. Pat Buede
  • Welcome New Member - Steven Gage  

• Zoning and Planning 
  • Thank you to the existing members serving as regular members: 1. Charlie Ellis (Chairperson) 2. Ken Williams 3. Mac Hillabush 4. Debbie Warren
  • Welcome New Member - Liz Geary

 

MORSE PARK, SHORELINE STABILIZATION, AND DREDGING 

 

Shoreline: The next step in the restoration process in and around Morse Park is securing the shoreline. 

• The shoreline around Morse Park is being armored with riprap as shown in the photo above. 
• Riprap will help prevent erosion by absorbing the force of waves and water, protecting the soil underneath, and stabilizing the bank.  
• The expanse of low lying dirt beyond the banks will be underwater once the lake levels resume to full pond.
• Dredging is taking place near this area

Dredging: Mechanical dredging is taking place to prevent future sedimentation build up in a small section of the riverbed near Morse Park. Crews have removed 8,200 Cubic Yards (CY) from the lakebed thus far.  The contract is for removing 30,000 CYs. Remaining sediment piles are located on Happy Hollow and Morse Park, with plans to remove all visible pipe and equipment as water rises.

Park grounds: The mound of dirt in Morse Park is being used to level out the grounds in the area to minimize future drainage issues.  Once this process is complete beautification and grass planting will begin. 

Next Steps for Morse Park: The next steps will be to utilize input and information from the Comprehensive Plan to develop a Morse Park Master Plan so additional amenities can be added based on resident preferences. 

 

2026 LAKE USE REGULATIONS

 

The 2026 Lake Use Regulations can be viewed here.     

• We are pleased to advise that there will be no change in personal Lake Use Fees in 2026, which includes no fees for personal non-motorized boats in 2026.

• Note that one change that was made to the 2026 Lake Use Regulations is that beginning in 2026, vacation rental management companies will be required to register and commercially permit non-motorized boats, as they are already required to do with their motorized boats. This change was made as these non-motorized boats are being utilized for commercial purposes. 

• You may download the 2026 Lake Use Fees. 

• You may download the 2026 Commercial Boat Permit Application for both non-motorized and motorized boats. 

• February 1, 2026 was the deadline for all no-motorized and motorized commercial applications.

• 2026 Lake Lure Non-commercial Boat Permits will be available for purchase beginning January 12, 2026 and you may learn more here. 

 

LAKE LURE DISC GOLF

 

 

While we are waiting on the lake levels to rise, enjoy some disc golf at the Lake Lure Green Space!

The Lake Lure Parks, Recreation, & Lake Department partnered with Jay McCarthy of Disc Golf Design Group, the Western North Carolina Disc Golf Association, and Dan Bragdon of Camp Lurecrest to provide Lake Lure with a temporary disc golf course at the Lake Lure Green Space. It is a mostly open 9-hole course with 3 tee pad options from beginner (Red) to intermediate (White) to advanced/pro (Blue). You may download the map here.

This is a fun and challenging course designed for everyone from beginners to professional disc golf players. 

RULES: 

• Disc Golf players must yield to pedestrians walking or biking on the paths.
• The Green Space is open to walking and biking only. No golf carts, ATV’s, or other vehicles allowed.
• Pets must be kept on a leash at all times.

Have fun and enjoy your time on the Lake Lure Green Space.

 

WASHBURN MARINA UPDATES

 

 

We are excited to share encouraging progress at Washburn Marina this week.  Water has begun returning to the marina basin! This is an important milestone in the ongoing recovery and rebuilding process following Hurricane Helene.

Floating Boardwalk and Docks

• Reconstruction work has begun on the Washburn Marina docks and floating boardwalk, with a target completion date of mid-July 2026.
• Some phases of construction require the lake to reach full pond level before work can be completed.
• Current projections anticipate the lake returning to full pond by late May 2026, which supports the July completion timeline.
• Visitors may notice new dock sections currently being constructed in the marina parking lot.
• The previous small marina building has been removed. For the 2026 season, a temporary building will be installed while plans move forward for a future permanent structure.
• The rebuilt marina will include 208 rental boat slips along with 6 hourly boat rental slips.
• The new Washburn Marina and Boardwalk design will closely replicate the previous layout, preserving the look and character of the marina that the community knows and loves.

 

Tour Boat Docks and Fueling Station

• New docks are being built for the tour boats, in the same location as they were previously. You can see the new construction in these photos above. 
• A new fueling station will be incorporated here on the left side of the marina when facing the water from the parking lot.
• These docks and the fueling station are targeted for completion by May 2026. 
• The boat ramp in this area will also be available for use once the lake reopens. 

Additional Information

• Town officials are still awaiting determinations from FEMA regarding the future of Town Hall.  Updates on this facility will be shared as soon as additional information becomes available.  Town Hall and the Police Department are temporarily located at The Landings, 920 Buffalo Creek Road, lake Lure, NC 28746.
• The Welcome Center has been removed and will not be replaced at this time.

We appreciate the community’s patience and support as we continue rebuilding and restoring the places that make Lake Lure special.

 

Plans for Washburn Marina 

 

 LAKE LURE DAM

 

Lake Lure Dam by Stephanie Ansley

• Spillway Repairs: The Tainter gate seal repair project on the spillway was completed this week. 

• 30% Design Project for the Lake Lure Replacement Dam: The Town received confirmation of grant funding for $484,471. Staff coordinated with Schnabel Engineering to obtain an updated Work Order (#10) for $910,900, and Town Council approved the work order and budget amendment. This project has begun and is expected to take 6– 8 months. This is a major step forward in the process of constructing the new dam.

• Detailed Design: FEMA has approved the grant application for the detailed design phase of the replacement dam (Work Order 10B). Total project costs are $3,500,000, with the Town responsible for a 35% match ($1,225,000) and grant funding approved for the remaining 65% ($2,275,000). The Town of Lake Lure was recently awarded this grant.  

 

KEEP IT IN THE ROAD!

 

• Highway 64/74A Beyond Chimney Rock Village: Highway 64/74A heading West beyond Chimney Rock Village remains closed to the public at large. It is open to "locals", which is defined as those who live and work in the area. Please do not use this road if you do not have to, as contractors have to stop their work to allow for passage when cars go by, slowing the recovery process. 

• NC DOT updates on Highway 64: A temporary road is expected to be open between Chimney Rock and Hendersonville was extended to March 31, 2026 (YES, this was just updated  to this date). For more information, visit the North Carolina Department of Transportation's (NC DOT’s) Drive NC link: https://drivenc.gov/?type=incident&id=715074      

• From South Carolina: From I-26 towards Asheville take Exit #66, then take the first exit for Highway 108). Turn left onto Highway 108 East. Follow 108 East for approximately 6 miles to the intersection of Highway 108 and Highway 9 (a traffic stoplight). Turn left onto Highway 9 North. Go 8 miles to the stop sign (Lake Lure will be in front of you).

• From Asheville: From I-26 towards Spartanburg - Take Exit #67 (Rutherfordton - Highway 108), once you exit, turn left onto Highway 108 East. Follow 108 East for approximately 6 miles to the intersection of Highway 108 and Highway 9 (a traffic stoplight). Turn left onto Highway 9 North. Go 8 miles to the stop sign (Lake Lure will be in front of you).

• Boys Camp Road Bridge:  he final draft for Boys Camp Road Bridge design is complete and will be advertise for bid. The plans is to review bids and make a recommendations for the award by March 2026.

• Proctor Road Culvert: Public Works crews are working to repairi the large culvert pipe on Proctor Road in the coming week. 

• Paving: Plans are underway to repave Lake Ridge Drive.  Paving on Charlotte Drive will now have to be delayed due to the need for staging debris from the SMART Program at the Public Works space behind the Fire Department.  The paving will occur once this program is complete. 

• One Lane on Memorial Highway: NC DOT is working on road repairs on Memorial Highway over the next two weeks.  Please allow additional time when going through town as there will be periodic areas with one lane open as these repairs are made.  This work is expected to take a couple of weeks.  We are very grateful to have this work being completed.   

 

 

FINANCIAL REIMBURSEMENTS RECEIVED

 

The following is a summary of the financial reimbursements the Town of Lake Lure has received following the destruction of Hurricane Helene.  

Key: Categories A: Debris Removal, B: Emergency Protective Measures and Permanent Work, Categories C-G: Roads, Water Control, Buildings, Utilities, Parks

• FEMA Coordination and Recovery Funding: Town staff continued weekly meetings with FEMA leadership to advance ongoing storm recovery projects and advocate for Lake Lure’s funding needs, with a focus on accelerating support for key infrastructure projects and ensuring timely reimbursement.

  • Staff also worked closely with ICF to advance funding through FEMA Public Assistance and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).

FEMA reimbursement amounts:

• $862,186.69 –Vegetative, C&D, and White Goods debris from Lake Lure and waterways
• $754,185.81 –Town-wide Emergency Protective Measures
• $65,390.00 –Vegetative debris from ROW and public property
• $503,580.00 –Design of permanent Boys Camp Road Bridge
• $118,323.67 –Temporary hydroelectric plant emergency repairs
• $8,250.00 –Temporary Town Hall Facility
• $13,255.75 –Dumpster rentals
• $28,531.78 –Temporary Relocation Costs – Town Hall Facility
• $9,681.02 –Municipal Water Supply Damage – 100% Complete Work
• $745,485.13 –Emergency Access Restoration at Dam
• $8,913.73 –Municipal Water Supply System Damage – Boys Camp Road Bridge Waterline
• $977,417 –WWTP A&E
• $118,943 – Temporary Emergency Wastewater Treatment Plant Repair
• $5,250 – Lakeshore River Sand Washout
• $101,487.47 – Sediment Pond Culvert
• $72,852.05 – Temporary Municipal Water Supply Project.
• $300,000 – A&E – Hydroelectric Generating Plant Damages
• $64,677.34 – Temporary Town Hall Facility – 90%

The following items are obligated, but pending reimbursement:

• $1,996,515.95 – Marina Docks Damages (Marina Replacement Project)
• $1,482,977.10 – Lake Safety Facilities
• $584,385.62 – Town Wide Roads and Culverts Damages 1 – Completed Work
• Proctor Road and the Flowering Bridge. Final amounts pending agreed upon fixed cost offer.

 

VISIT THE TOWN OF LAKE LURE!

 

While visitors should be mindful of ongoing recovery efforts, several local businesses and recreation areas have reopened.  There are a number of attractions that are open in the area. Lake Lure hotels, lodges, bed & breakfasts, and our amazing restaurants are open for business!  Our local businesses greatly appreciate your patronage!  Please visit the area and encourage others to visit as well. 

Download the Travel Guide here.  

Please visit the Local Restaurant Guide

And here are some of the amenities that are currently open to the public.  

• Morse Park, New Playground, and the Lake Lure Gazebo 
• Dittmer-Watts Nature Trails
• Disc Golf
• Lake Lure Green Space
• Pool Creek Picnic Park
• Check out the New Flowering Bridge Education Center and Gardens as they are being created           

These amenities are in Lake Lure and are open to the public.

• Youngs Mountain
• Rumbling Bald Golf Courses
• Chimney Rock State Park  (But reservation only) 
• Chimney Rock State Park – Rumbling Bald Access - Click here to reserve your tickets!

Additionally, horseback riding is available in the area along with zip lining, escape rooms, a candy cabin, and so much more!

Buffalo Creek Park/Weed Patch Mountain Trail/Upper Boulders Trail: Ongoing work is also taking place at Buffalo Creek Park, Weed Patch Mountain, and the Upper Boulder Trails by the National Guard, Carolina Climbers Coalition, Rutherford Outdoor Coalition, EcoForesters, and AmeriCorps. We cannot thank them enough for their time and support!  Progress continues to be made on Upper Boulders Trail, and a small section may be opening soon. The Town received a grant of $50,000 to assist with restoration.  Please stay tuned for updates!

Turtle Rock Trail: A new trail is being created near Pool Creek Picnic Park. Please stay tuned for updates!

Upcoming Events and Meetings:

• March 18, 2026 | 11:00 AM - Board Member Lunch Meeting - Location: The Landings

• March 25, 2026 | 8:30 am Town Council Work Session and Action Meeting - Location: The Landings

• March 28, 2026 | 10:00 AM - "Learning about the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird" Class - Location: Lake Lure Flowering Bridge Education Center 

• April 2, 2026 | 1:00 PM - Eat the Rainbow - Location: Mountains Branch Library Event
• April 3, 2026 | 10:00 AM - "Why Plant Native" Class - Location: Lake Lure Flowering Bridge Education Center 
• April 5, 2026 | Gates open early (approx. 5:00–5:30 AM), with the service starting around 6:45 AM - 70th Annual Easter Sunrise Service - Location: Chimney Rock State Park
• April 6, 2026 | 4:30 PM - Kids Prism Suncatcher Craft - Location: Mountains Branch Library Event
• April 9, 2026 | 11:00 AM - Puzzle Palooza - Location: Mountains Branch Library Event
• April 10, 2026 | 1:00 PM - Taste of the World - Taste Korea - Location: Mountains Branch Library Event
• April 16, 2026 | 11:30 AM - Books and Bites - Ellery Adams - Location: Mountains Branch Library Event
• April 16, 2026 | 4:30 PM - Teen Beaded Flower Craft - Location: Mountains Branch Library Event
• April 18, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM - Earth Day Activities - Location: Lake Lure Flowering Bridge Education Center 
• April 21, 2026 | 11:00 AM - Plant Swap - Location: Mountains Branch Library Event
• April 24, 2026 | 11:00 AM - Arbor Day Program - Location: Lake Lure Gazebo
• April 24, 2026 | 1:00 PM - On the Menu with Maria - Location: Mountains Branch Library Event
•  

2026 EVENTS CALENDAR 

 

You may download the 2026 Town of Lake Lure Calendar of Events.  This is a dynamic calendar so please check back regularly to check for updates. Please email Communications@townoflakelure.com for questions or suggestions. The Calendar is of Events is linked on the banner at the top of the homepage on the website.

You may review the official Town Calendar for information on Town Meetings. 

 

QUESTIONS/SUGGESTIONS

 

You may review previous Storm Recovery Updates in Town News at www.townoflakelure.com

For questions or suggestions, please email Communications@townoflakelure.com

 

Published 3/17/26