PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE CITY

July 21, 2009: Since the year 2000, the City of Charleston has been refining the Century V master plan [yes, 5 centuries as the city was established in 1670]. With a population of 120,000 [37K on the peninsula and 57K in West Ashley], the city has five regions: The Peninsula, West Ashley, James Island, Johns Island, and the Wando Peninsula, which includes much of Daniel Island.

The present goal is to complete a new plan within a 12 month period. Areas that are being given special attention include:

The Calhoun Corridor: from Frances Marion Square to the aquarium, and including Concord Park and the Maritime Center. It will have affordable housing, be pedestrian friendly, and have a park and more trees along the Calhoun corridor to the river.

The Union Pier: With the eventual demolition of several large warehouses, the whole passenger terminal area will be redesigned.

Concord Park: The area will include affordable residences, an inn, retail space and a park similar to Marion Square.

The Magnolia Project: The area has 216 acres, including 153 highlands. It runs between I-26 and the Ashley River. A first step bridge is under construction. Once the economy improves look for residential housing, offices and retail spaces.

Midtown [north King St.]: Watch for a hotel, condos, apartment, retail and some higher buildings.

West Ashley Projects: Includes housing beyond the new super Walmart, extension of the McConnell Parkway and new housing areas.

Bees Ferry Park: This new park will include tennis and playgrounds and open in 2010.

Long Savannah: Watch for new parallel roads to the Savannah Highway and more housing.

Johns Island: New codes are being worked on to maintain the rural character.

Reported by Fred Sales, Keyway Committee