In brief
Old Fort, NC, is thriving under the glow of FloatLife Fest, attracting around 400 riders for its annual gathering dedicated to motorized Onewheel boards. As the town rebuilds after the extensive damage from Hurricane Helene, local business owners hope that events like these will attract tourists and rejuvenate the economy. Even as scars from the hurricane remain visible, community spirit and outdoor pursuits are redefining Old Fort's future amidst the challenges of recovery.
OLD FORT, N.C. (AP) — The morning mist lingers as helmeted riders glide through the streets of Old Fort on their motorized Onewheel boards, passing by the towering Arrowhead Monument. This scene captures the vibrant atmosphere of FloatLife Fest, a gathering of roughly 400 enthusiasts that has doubled the local population, providing a much-needed economic boost as the town recovers from the impacts of Hurricane Helene.
Attendees like Jess Jones, a 34-year-old marine biologist from Edinburgh, Scotland, emphasize the warmth and welcoming vibe of the festival, highlighting the community's resilience amidst ongoing recovery efforts.
After being struck by Hurricane Helene in 2024, Old Fort has mixed signs of progress, with many local businesses reopening while some homes remain uninhabitable. Business owners, including bike shop owner Chad Schoenauer, hope to revitalize the area through a strong fall tourism season, even as many potential visitors are unaware that Old Fort is back in operation.
Community Resilience After Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Helene had a devastating impact on Old Fort, which was in the midst of reinventing itself as an outdoor tourism hub following significant job losses in 2019. According to Kim Effler, president of the McDowell Chamber of Commerce, community leaders are striving to capitalize on the town's natural beauty to diversify its economy.
With plans for hiking, running, and mountain biking trails, the G5 Trail Collective aimed to enhance the appeal of the area, but then disaster struck, causing lost trails and damaging infrastructure. Schoenauer’s bike shop faced severe damages due to flooding, leaving him with significant financial losses.
As the town struggles to rebuild, much of the tourist traffic has diminished due to ongoing repairs and the closure of popular attractions like the Blue Ridge Parkway. The parkway's restrictions have directly impacted the local economy, with some reports showing a drop in visitor spending in McDowell County.
Amidst these challenges, local businesses are seeing signs of recovery. Schoenauer, who reopened his shop in December, finds that his business has shifted focus to repairs as locals seek adventures on their existing bikes.
Old Fort stands as a testament to resilience and community spirit, fueled by events like FloatLife Fest that bring hope and vitality back to the region.
