OLD FORT, N.C. — Morning mist shrouds the striking Blue Ridge Mountains as riders on futuristic, one-wheeled skateboards glide through the town's streets, heralding the arrival of FloatLife Fest. Celebrating motorized Onewheel boards, this gathering has brought over 400 attendees to Old Fort, boosting the local economy in a town grappling with recovery a year post-Hurricane Helene's devastation.
Attendees like Jess Jones, a 34-year-old biologist from Scotland, express appreciation for the warm welcome they received, affirming the unique charm of this resilient mountain community.
While signs of recovery are palpable, lingering scars from the hurricane remind residents of the past. Shops in Old Fort are opening again although remnants of the disaster remain visible, with debris being cleared and homes still under repair.
Local business owners, like bike shop proprietor Chad Schoenauer, are hopeful for this year's fall tourist season to rejuvenate their livelihoods after severe impacts from Helene. Misunderstandings about the area's recovery, however, leave many in the dark about Old Fort's resilience.
From Ruins to Renaissance
Before Hurricane Helene, Old Fort was poised for transformation into a premier outdoor destination. Clarifying its innovative approach, the town began focusing on utilizing natural resources after the closure of a local manufacturing firm in 2019. Popular activities now encompass hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
Local initiatives led by groups like the G5 Trail Collective have already made strides, establishing new trails that continue to draw visitors to the area despite the hurricane's catastrophic impact last year, which demolished previously established pathways.
The storm struck during the early autumn of 2024, inundating downtown areas with floodwaters and damaging local businesses severely. Schoenauer recalls the harrowing moment he assessed the damage, with his shop suffering significant losses that included ruined inventory and historical flooring.
Community Resilience Amidst Challenges
The path to recovery is not without challenges. The Blue Ridge Parkway, beloved by tourists, faced closures that led to a drop in visitor numbers and subsequently in local business revenues. Efforts continue as community members unite to refurbish damaged trails and facilities.
While some businesses have resumed operations and new ventures are emerging, the task of rebuilding remains extensive. Initiatives to adapt infrastructure for flood resilience highlight a forward-thinking approach among local leaders.
Old Fort's FloatLife Fest serves not only as a celebration of fun but also as a testament to a community's strength. Amid struggles, the spirit of renewal and hope prevails as Old Fort strives to carve out a promising future.
