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MERRY HILL – It’s the perfect way to beat the heat and mark a special occasion.

Bertie County local government officials invite the public to join them on Saturday, July 22 to celebrate the completion of the first phase of Bertie Beach.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the beach, located at 243 Bal Gra Road, which is off US 17 at Black Rock Deli.

Phase 1 of the project included parking, an ADA assessable ramp, walkway to the beach, restrooms, outdoor showers, water bottle refill stations, kayak storage kiosk, two miles of hiking trails, primitive camping, and a picnic pavilion constructed by the Shop Class at Bertie High School.

Saturday’s celebration will also feature the North Carolina Resource Commission’s Wildlife Discovery Trailer. Those attending can also learn more about the First Colony Foundation’s work in the area of nearby Salmon Creek where perhaps some members of the famed Lost Colony of Roanoke Island may have ventured centuries ago.

July 22 also marks a celebration of the Year of the Trail. There are two events near Bertie Beach marking that occasion: the Salmon Creek State Natural Area, and the “Sounds of the Summer” in Edenton.

Swimming is allowed at Bertie Beach or just bring a lawn chair and/or blanket and enjoy the day. Kayaking is encouraged. Attendees can bring their own or rent one at Bertie Beach.

Lunch and snow cones will be available for purchase.

Referred to locally as the “Tall Glass of Water” (TGOW)” project, the site’s most stunning feature is its 2,200 linear feet of sand beach and shallow calm waters that overwatch impressive sand bluffs overlooking the waterway.

The purchase of this 137-acre site was made possible by the Bertie County’s Board of Commissioners and the N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund.

The overall purpose of the project is to support the responsible promotion of local assets, incubate small business development, and foster tourism.

The development of the project has come in stages over the past few years, to include a $500,000 grant from the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Authority.