James Island Park Faces Significant Land Loss Due to Mark Clark Extension Project

James Island Park Faces Impact from Mark Clark Extension Project

JAMES ISLAND, S.C. – The Mark Clark Extension Project has been a hot topic for conversation and debate among local residents of the Lowcountry for years. With considerations being made for its development, one aspect of the project is raising eyebrows: the fact that it may take away portions of land from the beloved James Island County Park.

In total, the proposed extension on Interstate 526 is set to infringe on a significant 46.72 acres of the park, which is a popular spot for both residents and visitors alike. While it’s true that approximately 600 acres of the park would remain intact, losing any part of this green space has many locals concerned. The Mark Clark Extension is aiming to cover 9.5 miles of new roadway starting from West Ashley and running through both Johns and James Islands.

Funding Complications

Wondering how it’s all being funded? Well, a large chunk of the project’s financing hinges on a half-cent sales tax referendum that will be on the ballot this coming November. If the referendum gets the thumbs up from voters, then the extension will undoubtedly proceed, which means James Island County Park would lose many loved attractions like the current climbing wall, disc golf and archery courses, and even the park’s headquarters building.

Emma Berry, the Coastal Conservation League’s Communities and Transportation Project Manager, voiced her concerns about the potential fallout: “The James Island County Park is one of the gems of James Island. While certain amenities might be relocated, the noise and air pollution from a four-lane interstate running through the park will definitely be felt.”

Park Officials Weigh In

Touching on these concerns, Patty Newshutz, the Director of Planning and Development for Charleston Parks, offered a slightly more optimistic perspective. She mentioned that while some recreation areas may be displaced, they are planning to simply move or replace these features, except for the headquarters and wetlands.

“We’ve known there would be some right-of-way acquisition since the park’s inception. We’ve tried to keep clear of those areas for major attractions,” Newshutz explained. The goal, she says, is to maintain the park’s current feel by establishing a broad vegetative buffer between the new roadway and the park’s remaining land. “I don’t think there is going to be a lot of visual impact,” she assured.

Wetlands at Risk

However, the park isn’t the only casualty here; the Mark Clark Extension would also eliminate nearly 40 acres of wetlands across Charleston County. And for the residents, this would mean being taxed a half-cent sales tax for 25 years or until the county reaches a total of $5.4 billion designated for road projects and improvements – with this Mark Clark Expressway extension being the top priority.

Community Concerns and Benefits

Charleston County Council Vice Chairman Jenny Honeycutt responded to these concerns by emphasizing that the area being discussed is largely considered a buffer zone. “This part of the property, while still in the park, isn’t extensively utilized by the public,” she explained.

There’s also a silver lining; the West Ashley Greenway is planned to cut through the park, potentially improving bicycle and pedestrian access for those looking to enjoy the outdoors. “We expect enhancements that will benefit us on a broader scale,” Newshutz mentioned.

What’s Next?

As the Nov. 5 voting date approaches, residents of Charleston County are preparing to weigh in on the half-cent sales tax referendum. With varied opinions swirling around, one thing is certain: the outcome will shape the future of both the Mark Clark Extension and the cherished James Island County Park.