Charleston City Council Greenlights $300 Million Redevelopment Plans for West Ashley

Charleston City Council Approves Exciting Redevelopment Plans for West Ashley

Charleston, S.C. is buzzing with excitement after Tuesday night’s city council meeting where members unanimously voted to move forward with a significant redevelopment plan for the West Ashley area. This comes after years of back-and-forth discussions, and the community is eager to see changes take shape.

What’s the Plan?

The proposed project revolves around a three-acre triangular-shaped piece of land, often referred to as the “suicide merge” area at the intersection of Sam Rittenberg Boulevard and Old Towne Road. This plot, which was once home to a Piggly Wiggly, has been sitting vacant as city leaders struggled to agree on a development approach. But now, hope is on the horizon!

The new plan not only targets this empty parcel owned by the city but also includes plans for the nearby Ashley Landing shopping center, which is owned by a group known as Faison. One of the exciting pieces of news is that the owners of Ashley Landing have tapped a renowned company called Edens for the redevelopment project. Edens is known for its impressive properties, including Freshfields Village on Johns Island, and they are currently in the process of purchasing the two properties.

What’s the Investment?

The undertaking represents a stunning $300 million private investment aimed at transforming the area. The proposal features a mix of amazing amenities such as green spaces, parks, improved stormwater management systems, and a vibrant selection of retail and restaurant options. It’s not just about businesses either—plans also include provisions for affordable and workforce housing.

City of Charleston spokesperson Deja Knight McMillan highlighted that a critical improvement will be the addition of nine acres of underground stormwater systems. Currently, the property lacks adequate stormwater retention, causing water to flow into surrounding neighborhoods during rain. The community can expect these changes to mitigate such issues.

Funding the Redevelopment

As for funding, the city plans to contribute about $47 million, with a significant portion of that—$44 million—coming from Tax Increment Financing. Mayor William Cogswell pointed out, “This plan aligns with what the community wants and what’s feasible for the area. It’s worth mentioning that with this plan, we’ll be redeveloping thirty-five acres in a very positive way compared to just three and a quarter acres in previous proposals.”

Community Enthusiasm

Excitement about the redevelopment is palpable amongst community members. City Council member Karl Brady, who represents District 5, expressed his enthusiasm by noting, “I think people are tired of staring at a dilapidated lot at the gateway to West Ashley. This will provide a beautiful entryway into the largest suburb in the city.”

During the meeting, Savannah Brennan from a local group called Charleston Moves mentioned her excitement about working closely with Edens and the city to ensure smooth transportation throughout the area. However, she also advocated for an increase in the percentage of affordable and workforce housing from the ten percent currently designated in the plan.

A Bright Future Ahead

Another lifelong West Ashley resident shared his passion for revitalizing the area, saying, “I’ve watched that area evolve and then devolve into a God-awful eyesore. Now, we have an opportunity to bring it back to the glory it deserves.”

With three readings required for final approval, the second reading is set for September 24 and the third for October 8. If all goes to plan, Mayor Cogswell expects redevelopment could wrap up by 2027. “This project is going to be a fantastic addition to Charleston, creating the gateway that West Ashley has long deserved,” he affirmed.

Overall, it seems like the West Ashley area is on the verge of a wonderful transformation, and the community is genuinely hopeful about what lies ahead. Fingers crossed for a bright future!