08/31/2026
August 22nd marked one year since FCS Equestrian Center flooded. The Effingham Parkway to blame as the project changed the known wetlands it was built through. The plans of the parkway are poorly designed with culverts that do not move the water, causing our once dry land to stay flooded even in a drought. Where we use to trail ride is now a new wetland as the parkway has moved water in permanently to our land (see photo).
With the one-year anniversary of FCS’ great flood past, we are getting another larger than average influx of questions on what is being done to remedy these issues. The simplest answer is nothing. We have been informed that they will be taking out our section of the road to build a bridge. This was communicated to us in May 2026, yet there is no timeline on when this new construction will begin. Continuously keeping us at a constant state of worry on when the next flood will occur.
These are some things our community needs to know and be prepared to experience if their land is seized eminent domain. One: no matter how long an attorney tells you the process will take always add several more years. It has been more than six years since we began the legal process of eminent domain and inverse condemnation regarding the Effingham Parkway. As of right now, it is like the idea of the bridge, a date of resolution is just that of myth.
Two: you are your own advocate. No one will fight for you like you! This is simply because no one else will understand your loss, frustration, and the effects like you. The support of family, friends, and the community will give you a feeling of encouragement; however, they will not be dedicated to action in your case like you.
Three: stay educated. Learn as much as you can about eminent domain and its laws. If you are a business being affected, you will also need to understand the meaning of inverse condemnation and what that entails. How it all relates to your community and growth. Do not get stuck with this education coming from just your attorney. Read as much as you can, ask questions, and find how it relates to not just your land, but your neighbors. How it relates to your environment and what laws protect land seizures in your community. This goes beyond just a road project; your hard work can be taken for a data center, warehouse, retention pond, and the list goes on.
A year of no home, no resolution in sight, false promises and hope. We were assured that the flood would get everything moving faster to a resolution; yet here we are, 374 days later still waiting. Waiting because it did not happen to them. It did not happen to our commissioners. It did not happen to our county manager. It did not happen to the county engineer. It did not happen to the attorneys.
These are some of the questions we are being asked:
1. When will there be a resolution? Your guess is as good as mine.
2. When will you have a home again? Whenever I feel comfortable that I can afford to purchase a second property.
3. Will you rebuild your house? No point if it will flood again.
4. Have you moved back into your house? No it is still condemned.
5. How long will you live in your office? Until we can rebuild or purchase something else.
6. When will the flooding issues be resolved? In theory, when the bridge is completed.
7. How will the flooding issues be resolved? A bridge. At least that is what we are being told by “experts” will solve the issue.
8. Are you going to be able to stay at your current location? We are stuck until the lawsuits are completed. Therefore, as of now, there is no plans to permanently move our location. If flooding is resolved then we have no plans to move.
We are thankful for everyone that keeps up with our story with continuous support. We ask everyone to please keep sharing our journey and keep asking the difficult questions in your community. We work hard for our home and business like many of you do. Stay alert and educated on what is happening in your community. Your home or business should not be taken for corporate greed hidden in a label “for the greater good of the community”.
Effingham County, Georgia
