News: Myrtle Beach Pavilion's 2006 season to be its last

Posted at 9:39 PM EST (0239 GMT)

Mar. 9th, 2006 -- In a move that had been expected for some time, the owners of the Myrtle Beach Pavilion have announced that 2006 will be landmark’s final season.

Park owner Burroughs and Chapin Co, Inc. made the announcement at the Grand Dunes Ocean Clean on Thursday.

"A great deal of careful, painstaking thought has gone into making this decision. The Pavilion has been one of the central landmarks of Myrtle Beach tourism for more than 50 years, and no one has a stronger or deeper emotional attachment than the people at Burroughs & Chapin," said Doug Wendel, president of the company.

The landmark that had been operating since 1948 has entertained it’s share of tourists over the years. Unfortunately operational costs grew and revenues declined, forcing the closure. The city’s Downtown Redevelopment Corp. had suggested that the park leave a couple of years ago.

While the plans for the site have not been announced, the goal is to turn the area in to a collection of shops and lodging that would lure visitors to the area year round. Charleston firm LS3P is working on details, but they won't be ready for another two months.

Plans regarding the status of the Pavilion site and the rides have not been announced.

"We don't want to take away from today with what will happen when the park closes," B&C Board Chairman Egerton Burroughs said.

The Pavilion opens on weekends starting March 17 and every day starting April 7. The complex includes an oceanfront arcade, Attic teen nightclub and 49 rides.

For more, please visit the Myrtle Beach Online.