Excitement and Concerns Surround New Pool Club Development in Mount Pleasant

Excitement and Concerns Surround New Pool Club Development in Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant, S.C. has recently been buzzing with discussions about a new project that aims to bring families together. The Erckman Pool Club has been proposed as a getaway for locals to enjoy the outdoors, but as with most community developments, not everyone sees it as a splash of good news.

The Vision Behind the Pool Club

During a meeting of the Town of Mount Pleasant’s Commercial Design Review Board this Monday night, the project’s developers shared their vision. Alan Biggers, one of the project developers, emphasized the need for a community-friendly space where families can gather and enjoy nature. “It’s local people, everyone lives in the neighborhood,” he explained. “We all have young kids and we’re looking to create a place where they can gather and be together out in nature and have a good time.”

Concerns From Local Residents

However, not all viewpoints aligned with this vision. Several residents living near the proposed site attended the board meeting to voice their concerns. Noise level and safety were at the forefront of their worries. One resident, Stephanie Myers, expressed her anxieties about the pool club’s location, stating, “You’re looking to build this pool club smack dab almost on top of houses. There are houses to the right and to the front.”

Residents like Myers are worried that the development would come with traffic challenges. “Those facilities are built on their own area and not interfering with safety, traffic, parking, and noise,” she added, pointing out that the noise and traffic from the club could disrupt their family life.

Parking and Safety Debates

The board members were also keen on addressing parking issues, which could arise from events at the new pool club. There were concerns about whether parking would be sufficient to accommodate the visitors. Despite these worries, the Commercial Design Review Board ultimately gave the green light to the project, stating that it meets the city’s zoning requirements.

Despite local concerns, the developers are not planning to back down easily. They mentioned that they are willing to discuss solutions with the neighborhood, hoping to integrate the pool club positively into the community. “Part of the beauty of Old Village and Old Mount Pleasant is why people want to be here; it’s about being part of the community,” said Biggers, highlighting the communal benefits of the pool club.

A Mixed Bag of Opinions

In contrast to the objections, some attendees voiced their support for the new pool club. Many see it as an ideal spot for children to play and families to connect. Parents are hopeful that the project will give their kids a safe place to enjoy summer days and make lifelong memories.

Next Steps for the Pool Club

As the process moves forward, a few logistical issues still need to be addressed. Residents are keen on discussing speed bumps or signage to improve safety on the roads leading to the club, but they were informed that such requests need to be directed at state officials since the road in question is a state road.

While many in the neighborhood remain concerned about the potential impact of the pool club, others are excited about the opportunities it presents. Developers hope to begin breaking ground by spring of next year, and they’re looking forward to making adjustments and enhancements based on community feedback.

Only time will tell how this new development will play out and whether it will ultimately be a boon or a burden for Mount Pleasant residents. Whatever the verdict, the conversations surrounding the Erckman Pool Club are sure to continue as community members navigate their hopes and concerns.