Surfworks has announced that it will open in a completely different location in 2027 after previously requesting a land payment extension from the City of Myrtle Beach.
There are plans underway for the much-debated Surfworks at the intersection of 21st Avenue North and the Highway 17 Bypass. This upcoming attraction will showcase a Wavegarden Surf Lagoon consisting of 56 modules, capable of generating synthetic waves suitable for surfers of all skill levels.
SURFWORKS
Surfworks intends to open the new location in 2027, subject to permits. This new location is situated at the former site of the Palace Theatre.
Downtown city planning is greatly impacted by this, constituting a significant setback. Broadway at the Beach is currently under ownership of Burroughs and Chapin. For over ten years, the city has been in conflict with Burroughs and Chapin regarding the vacant area on 9th Avenue, where the Myrtle Beach Pavilion used to be situated.
Myrtle Beach city officials have engaged in discussions with SurfWorks investors for several years regarding their proposal to introduce the ambitious project to the city.
In September, SurfWorks requested a six-month extension while they were in the process of obtaining financing. On September 26, CEO Jeff Skelley informed the city council that they had invested $3.5 million in the initial property on Robert M. Grissom Parkway to prepare it for construction.
On Tuesday, local news was informed by city spokeswoman Meredith Denari that the land purchase contract was never completed prior to SurfWorks securing a new location.
The surf park will include a wave pool that utilizes advanced technology to produce high-quality waves at regular intervals of every eight seconds. Additionally, there will be cabanas, commercial establishments, and retail areas. Moreover, a 10,000-seat amphitheater will be part of the park’s amenities.
American Surf Parks LLC, the parent company of Surfworks, got approval to purchase a 21.6-acre parcel of land near the John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center for $4.5 million in 2022. The city council approved the sale with a 6-2 vote. As part of the agreement, the city retained the option to repurchase the land if the proposed project did not materialize.
The projected “profit sharing” revenue for the city upon the successful operation of the park at the Robert M. Grissom Parkway site was expected to be approximately $1 million annually.
“We see Surfworks as an exciting addition to Broadway at the Beach,” Chad E. Carlson, CFO of Burroughs & Chapin, said in the press release. “Joining our impressive collection of outstanding attractions such as Ripley’s Aquarium, WonderWorks, Popstroke and The Hangout, Surfworks will take its place as a unique new way to experience all that Broadway has to offer.”
The attraction will also feature a surf shop, a restaurant, a Beach Club and other premium accommodations.
The Wavegarden Surf Lagoon will offer various amenities including a surf shop, a restaurant, a Beach Club, and upscale accommodations.
The Myrtle Beach surf park project has been under development for a considerable period. It has faced several delays caused by different factors.
The resort, as mentioned in the announcement, will cover an expansive 28 acres and offer a range of amenities designed to provide an unparalleled surf experience.
Original Surfworks planned location
Local News Via - MyrtleBeachSC.com
