Lake Lure Town News Summary - 4/30/26

Lake Lure Beach

Thank you for taking the time to review this Town of Lake Lure news summary.

The following is a summary of updates on town priorities and key projects with links to meeting summaries, media coverage, and upcoming events. 

If there is any additional infomation you would like to see covered in the Town News, please send your suggestions to Communications@townoflakelure.com. We welcome your questions or suggetions.

 

TOGETHER WE RISE!

 

The Town of Lake Lure, NC is pleased to report that the lake is at Full Pond!  Hallelujah!  

Lake Lure at Full Pond

 

LAKE LURE SOFT OPENING

 

 

lake-lure-north-carolina paddleboarders

 

The Town of Lake Lure is very pleased to announce a Phase One “Soft Opening” of the lake beginning April 20, 2026, following continued progress in recovery efforts and improving lake conditions. We are forever grateful to all those who helped us achieve this important milestone.

This initial reopening phase will allow the Town to safely reintroduce public access while continuing to monitor conditions and complete ongoing work.

What to Expect During Phase One

This soft opening is designed to prioritize safety while allowing limited recreational use.

  • Conditions on the lake remain variable, and recovery operations are still ongoing.

  • All users participate at their own risk due to potential debris and changing conditions.

  • Public ramps are not available during this phase due to construction projects in the Washburn Marina but boats may launch from private docks. 

  • Non-motorized vessels may be used and no permit is required. 

  • Non-motorized vessels may launch from the public ramp for non-motorized vessels in Pool Creek Picnic Park.

Read all guidelines for Phase One “Soft Opening” here.

 

NEXT STEPS FOR GRAND OPENING

 

Marina Construction

 

The Washburn Marina/Morse Park boat ramp area remains closed due to ongoing work to rebuild the stationary marina docks and the floating boardwalk and boat slips.

  • A temporary Marina Building will be placed in the area serve the public and manage boat tours.

  • The Marina fuel pump is being installed for public use. 

  • These amenities are not expected to be available until closer to Memorial Weekend.

  • The illustration below is of the future Marina Building that will be built to replace teh temporary building that will be used this season.

  • The rebuilt marina will include 208 seasonal boat slips along with 6 Daily Rental Slips (4 day minimum rentals), and 6 - free 2.5 hour boat rental slips (first come, first serve).

    • All slip assignments remain as they were in 2024.

    • There is a wait list for the seasonal boat slips. Send an email to inquire about the mailing list.

    • The new Washburn Marina and Floating Boardwalk design will closely replicate the previous layout, preserving the look and character of the marina that the community knows and loves.

  • Additionally, there will be a dock with temporary slips available near Pool Creek Picnic Park but a date for this project is not yet confirmed.

 

Future Marina Building

 

CEREMONY ANNOUNCING REOPENING DATES FOR LAKE LURE

 

With full hearts and deep gratitude, we invite you to join us for a truly meaningful and long-awaited moment - the official announcement of the reopening of Lake Lure following the closure after the devastation of Hurricane Helene. We are thrilled that Governor Stein and Col. Brad Morgan from the US Army Corps of Engineers will be joining us for this important milestone.

This day represents more than reopening our beloved lake; it marks resilience, restoration, and the strength of a community that never lost its connection to the water or to each other.

We hope you’ll be part of this historic occasion on May 15, 2026:

Morning Ceremony
11:00 AM
Lake Lure Gazebo at Morse Park
2930 Memorial Highway
Lake Lure, NC 28746

Afternoon Celebration
2:00 PM
Rumbling Bald Beach
112 Mountains Blvd
Lake Lure, NC 28746

Come stand with neighbors, friends, and fellow lovers of Lake Lure as we honor the journey and celebrate the return of something deeply cherished. Whether you’ve visited for years or simply feel the gravitation to this special place, your presence will help make this moment complete.

 

 SHORELINE DEBRIS REMOVALREMAINS UNDERWAY!

 

SMART Program Contractors at Sunset

The North Carolina State Mission Assigned Recovery Task (SMART) Program contractors continue their work around the lake. 

  • To date, they have cleared more than 5,000 cubic yards of debris, and their efforts are ongoing.

  • Debris from the lake is temporarily dropped off for sorting behind the Lake Lure Fire Department. The debris is sorted and taken to the Polk County Landfill. 

  • Crews will make additional rounds around the lake and appreciate your patience with this enormous task.

  • A reminder their crews are NOT able to touch boat houses or docks as they gather debris so it should not be placed their. 

  • Additionally, their mission is removing debris from Helene, so they are unable to remove freshly cut "green" vegetative debris. 

  • Estimated completion fro this rocess is within 2 to 3 weeks.

  • Once the SMART Program concludes, the Town will publicsh guidelines for a new Shoreline Debris Removal Process through Public Works. Please stay tuned for this details.

 

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.

 

WATER QUALITY

 

Please see the water sample results.  We are pleased to report that the latest results remain within normal.  This data is current through 3/28/26.  April 2026 samples have been taken and will be posted as soon as they are received. 

 

FISHERY UPDATE

Lake Lure's Fishery Recovery Remains a Priority! 

As the lake continues to refill, ongoing habitat improvements are underway for the Lake Lure fishery.  Over 300 trees are being placed into the lake to create a new habitat for the fish. The long-term ecological recovery will continue to be guided by years of professional fishery studies.   For more information on the fishery, please see the Lake Lure Fishery Update from Gary Hasenfus, Lake Advisory Board Member and fishing enthusiast. (Photo below is of Luke Watkins 4/26)

 

 

MORSE PARK

 

 

Sedimentation Removal by SMART 033026

 

There are two different sedimentation removal projects taking place. 

The one shown above is at Morse Park.  The sediment removal in Morse Park is complete.  The remaining sediment will be used to raise the elevation in Morse Park to address drainage issues. Once the leveling has taken place, grass will be planted throughout the area. 

The next steps in Morse Park 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.  

The second project is across the river from Morse Park.  This sedimentation will be removed by contractors working for the Town of Lake Lure but at some point in the future based on funding priorities.

 

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. 697 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. The Comprehensive Plan will help inform the amenities that are placed in Morse Park and other areas around town.  This report will be widely shared once it is published.  The estimated date for presentation is July 2026.  

 

CELL TOWER UPDATES

 

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 has been in the process of being calibrated.  This is taking longer than anticipated unfortunately but it is happening. 
  • The tower will have service for AT&T and T-Mobile users. 
  • Service was anticipated to begin 4/30/26.  
  • An application from Verizon has still not been received despite continued efforts to encourage their participation. 
  • Verizon customers may reach out the company to request that they commit to being a carrier on the tower.
  • A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony is being planned for 5/22/26 at 11:00 at the Cell Tower site. 

 

MEETING THE MARK

 

2/10/26 Town Council Meeting

 

 

STAFFING UPDATES

 

The Police Department is proud to announce the addition of its first K9 officer in department history. Koda, a search and rescue and drug detection dog and he began training with Officer Burrell in January. He recently completed his training and has started his work at the Town of Lake Lure. 

 

 Koda with Officer Burrell

 

 

IN THE NEWS

 

The following is a summary of some of the news coverage from Lake Lure. 

 

 

 

 

 

2026 LAKE USE REGULATIONS

 

Antique Boats in Lake Lure

The 2026 Lake Use Regulations can be viewed here.     

 

 LAKE LURE DAM

 

Aerial View Lake Lure Dam by Stephanie Ansley

Lake Lure Dam by Stephanie Ansley

  • 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 and just received a contract for this project 3/27/26.  

 

KEEP IT IN THE ROAD!

 

  • Highway 64/74A Beyond Chimney Rock Village: Highway 64/74A heading West beyond Chimney Rock Village is open to the public at large. 

  • 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:  Easement issues have delayed this project.  The Town received three bids from reputable contractors for the Boys Camp Bridge Replacement Project. LaBella Associates reviewed the bids and provided technical guidance on the project.  The recommended proposal was  for NHM Constructors, Inc.  Town Council approved the award for this bid proposal. We are waiting for AT&T to move lines, but the project can begin the process to be ready once that has been completed.

  • Paving: 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. 

 

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.

Grants:

  • Multiple grant applications are either in progress or pending award decisions.
  • A comprehensive tracking spreadsheet is being developed for internal use.
  • Notification received regarding potential additional Helene SRF funding.
    • Funding could total up to 7 million dollars. Sewer system and wastewater treatment plant replacements.

 

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.  

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

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

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

Upcoming Events and Meetings:

April 24, 2026 - August 2026

Hidden in Plain Sight - Green Salamander Art Trail | Lake Lure North Carolina 

May 1–2, 2026
Lake Lure Parrots & Pirates Music Festival 
Location: Lake Lure Beach 

May 6, 2026 | 9:00 AM
Calling All Volunteers - May Trail Tamers Workdays - Please Join Us!
Location: Weed Patch - Contact trails@rutherfordoutdoor.org

May 6, 2026 | 10:00 AM
"Growing and Using Herbs" Class
Location: Lake Lure Flowering Bridge Education Center 

May 6, 2026 | 11:30 AM
Rose Senehi - A River Runs Through It
Location: Mountains Branch Library Event

May 8, 2026 | All Day (Stay tuned for more information) 
Swim for Recovery - Swim for Renewal: One Day, One Swim, One Lake, One community
Location: Lake Lure 

May 9, 2026
Lake Lure Classical Academy Relay for Life 
Location: Lake Lure Classical Academy 

May 9–10, 2026
Lake Lure Arts and Crafts Festival
Location: Lake Lure Town Center - Across from the Lake Lure Beach 

May 13, 2026 | 9:00 AM
Calling All Volunteers - May Trail Tamers Workdays - Please Join Us!
Location: Buffalo Creek Park - Contact trails@rutherfordoutdoor.org

May 15, 2026 | 11:00 AM (Stay tuned for more information) 
Ceremony Announcing Dates for Reopening Lake Lure
Location: Morse Park Gazebo 

May 15, 2026 | 2:00 PM (Stay tuned for more information) 
Ceremony Announcing Dates for Reopening Lake Lure
Location: Beach at Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure 

May 20, 2026 | 9:00 AM
Calling All Volunteers - May Trail Tamers Workdays - Please Join Us!
Location: Dittmer-Watts Trails - Contact trails@rutherfordoutdoor.org

May 20, 2026 | 10:00 AM
“Let’s Make a Terrarium” Workshop
Location: Lake Lure Flowering Bridge Education Center 

May 23, 2026
Lake Lure Lake Reopening Celebration with Fireworks
Location: Lake Lure Beach 

 

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 4/30/26

 

 

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