An inspection of the more than 60-acre historic walking gardens on Bradley Creek, shows at least 60 trees were blown over or seriously damaged by Hurricane Floyd. Irrigation lines, and other infrastructure also sustained significant damage by the September 16 th storm. New Hanover County Cooperative Extension Director, Dr. Bruce Williams is recommending Airlie Gardens remain closed until the trees are removed, damages repaired and the grounds are suitable for the public.
Bids are to be sought for professional tree removal.
A water pump on the grounds has been replaced, however, many of the irrigation lines were disrupted when trees were uprooted by heavy winds and rain. Also among the ravages was a sinkhole which caused damage to the causeway between the two freshwater ponds on the property.