Charleston Residents Rally Together to Protect Gadsden Creek from Development Threats

Charleston Residents Unite to Save Gadsden Creek

Charleston is buzzing with energy as local residents gear up for a fight to protect their beloved Gadsden Creek from a looming commercial development. This is a story of community, resilience, and the courageous people standing up for what they believe is right, all against the backdrop of a recent Supreme Court ruling that many feel missed the mark.

What Happened?

Just last week, the South Carolina Supreme Court delivered a ruling that has left some residents and community leaders with a sour taste. This ruling allows the WestEdge commercial development project to proceed, potentially destroying Gadsden Creek in the process. For many, this feels like a step backward, especially since the area has seen its fair share of hardships and injustice over the years.

As community leaders from the Friends of Gadsden Creek, including Amron Lee, Markelle Evans, and Brian Walters, have pointed out, this was more than just a legal battle. Since 2018, they have united with the folks living in Gadsden Green to rally against the destruction of their cherished wetland, aiming to honor the area’s rich history and empower residents. “We’ve cultivated a vibrant, collaborative community,” they shared. “And our bond is strengthened by the waterway that ties us all together.”

A Silver Lining?

While the court ruling has sparked disappointment, there’s a glimmer of hope. The court specified that this decision doesn’t set a precedent that developers can use to justify the destruction of other wetlands. This means there’s still a chance to fight back against further encroachments on nature.

Community leaders echoed some well-founded concerns raised by environmental advocates. They emphasized that vital wetlands like Gadsden Creek shouldn’t be sacrificed for non-water-related structures when there are feasible alternatives available. As they put it, “We believe regulators must be held accountable to their own policies.”

Voices from the Community

The sentiment among Gadsden Green residents is palpable. Roland Flowers, a resident, poignantly stated, “The wrong thing was done over 100 years ago, and we are trying to straighten it out.” His words resonate deeply with those who have tirelessly fought to ensure that Gadsden Creek remains intact, both for the community’s history and its environmental benefits.

Folks across Charleston recognize the creek’s multifunctional role, serving as a vital flood buffer while also acting as a cooling area amid rising temperatures. In short, paving over Gadsden Creek would only enrich developers, leaving residents and the environment to suffer.

Building a Stronger Community

While WestEdge pushes its agenda, the Friends of Gadsden Creek have been busy laying the groundwork for a sustainable future. They’ve organized mutual aid events, hosted monthly tenant meetings, and engaged with key partners for like-minded support. Just recently, they released their FOGC Counter Proposal, a report designed to showcase alternative visions for Gadsden Creek and Gadsden Green, highlighting the community’s needs and disproving the notion that nothing can be done to save the creek.

In the words of the Friends of Gadsden Creek, “This counter proposal is a living document.” It’s aimed at guiding future developments that prioritize the needs of current Gadsden Green residents—an initiative everyone can get behind!

A Call to Arms

Community leaders are urging their fellow Charlestonians to take action. They invite everyone to explore their newly published report, available for read-through on their website’s Research tab. “Join us in advocating for developments that put Gadsden Green residents at the forefront,” they say.

As Charleston braves the ongoing climate challenges, the battle for Gadsden Creek shows no signs of slowing. Each day, more residents are stepping up to stand against the tide of development that threatens their community’s spirit and natural resources.

The fight continues, fueled by a passion for protecting their past while building a healthier, equitable future. With one voice, the residents of Gadsden Green declare their determination: “Gadsden Creek is worth saving!”