LAKE LURE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The Town of Lake Lure has set May 1, 2026, as its target date to fully reopen the lake for public use after more than a year of recovery from Hurricane Helene.
The timeline, announced in a Sept. 9 press release, marks a major milestone in efforts to restore the lake basin, shoreline and surrounding facilities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is expected to complete its restoration work by Oct. 31, 2025.
Town officials said they plan to begin refilling the lake in early 2026, reaching 978.5 feet mean sea level by March 1, a level that will allow regional and collegiate rowing teams to resume spring training. By May 1, the lake is expected to reach full pond level of 990.5 feet MSL and reopen to the public.
Recovery efforts in the area remain ongoing. Washburn Marina is being rebuilt in stages, while decisions on other town facilities, including Town Hall and the Welcome Center, are pending FEMA determinations and funding. Plans are also underway to restore Morse Park and install a new playground.
Helene destroyed water lines at Lake Lure Beach, and town officials said repairs will allow the beach building to reopen in summer 2026. Volunteers have already reopened some parks and trails, and officials said more community cleanup efforts are planned.