Johns Island Residents Face Historic Dilemma as Mark Clark Extension Vote Approaches

Johns Island Faces Historic Concerns Amid Mark Clark Extension Plans

JOHNS ISLAND — The air is crisp and clear today, with a cool breeze flowing through Johns Island, and the sun shining brightly as the town gears up for an important vote. On November 5, residents will have the chance to decide on a half-cent sales tax referendum, which could be a game changer for local transportation, including the controversial Mark Clark Expressway Extension.

However, this potential progress comes with a hefty price tag—one that may involve the sacrifice of some beloved historical sites. Recent discussions have revealed that construction for the Mark Clark extension could significantly impact areas steeped in history, prompting local authorities to tread carefully.

Preserving History

During a meeting on October 15, Charleston County officials approved an agreement with several entities focused on preserving these historical sites. This agreement acknowledges that as the Mark Clark extension moves forward, it could adversely affect several archaeological sites and the Fenwick Hall Historic District. Fenwick Hall, which dates back to 1730, has a storied past, having served as a headquarters during both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. It has been recognized as a significant historical site since being added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

The impacts of development are a pressing concern, especially for Fenwick Hall and River Road, which, according to architectural historian Virginia Harness, has been deemed eligible for the National Register due to its long-standing importance as a transportation route dating back to the 18th century.

Consulting the Local Tribe

Wenonah Haire, a tribal historic preservation officer for the Catawba Indian Nation, spoke about the importance of assessing any archaeological sites or human remains that might be disturbed by construction. Thankfully, preliminary plans for the extension have aimed to avoid disrupting the most significant historical locations, although one unidentified site on James Island may require further review.

As part of the agreement, the county is exploring various mitigation strategies, such as installing educational signs detailing the history of Fenwick Hall along multi-use paths and producing a comprehensive report highlighting how to approach historical roadways in future projects.

Legal Chats and Community Concerns

While many are hopeful about the referendum’s potential, legal clouds have hovered over the Mark Clark extension. A lawsuit filed by the Coastal Conservation League in July claimed the ballot was illegal, citing concerns about detaching the Mark Clark extension from other roadway projects within the sales tax proposal. Fortunately, a judge dismissed the lawsuit in September, stating the issue could be resolved after the vote.

County officials have made it clear that even if the new tax is rejected, they will proceed with permitting as they seek additional funding for future designs of the extension.

A Look Back at Preservation Efforts

Historic preservation is a delicate balancing act. While many residents of Johns Island cherish their town’s past, development pressures continue to mount. There have been instances where local groups successfully fought to protect historical sites during construction projects. For instance, the establishment of the Charleston Navy Base Historic Trust aimed to minimize the impact of a railyard on the Charleston Naval Hospital Historic District.

In a hopeful twist, the community even found a historic indigo vat on a resident’s property in 2009. The city is now working with developers to protect this significant site amidst new neighborhood constructions.

As residents gear up to make their voices heard on the sales tax referendum, it’s clear that the fate of the Mark Clark Extension and the cherished historical landmarks at risk are at the forefront of many minds. With the vote just around the corner, community engagement is more important than ever.

Only time will tell whether the skies clear for the future of Johns Island’s roadways or if clouds of doubt will persist amidst the ongoing preservation efforts.