April 9, 2025

Charleston Approves $1.1 Million Lowcountry Lowline Contract

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News Summary

The Charleston City Council is set to approve a $1.1 million contract for the Lowcountry Lowline project, which aims to enhance urban connectivity by constructing bike and pedestrian paths. Stretching from Mount Pleasant Street to Line Street, this initiative will integrate green spaces and improve access to recreational areas, fostering community engagement. With construction planned to begin in October 2025, the project seeks to revitalize neighborhoods historically divided by infrastructure development.

Charleston Set to Approve $1.1 Million Contract for Lowcountry Lowline Construction

The Charleston City Council is gearing up to green-light a major urban development initiative with a significant $1.1 million contract aimed at breaking ground on the highly anticipated Lowcountry Lowline. This groundbreaking plan is part of a comprehensive two-phase connectivity strategy designed to reshape the area surrounding an existing skate park, adding new parks and enhanced amenities for residents and visitors alike.

Breaking New Ground

The first phase of construction promises to be transformative, extending from Mount Pleasant Street to Line Street along an old railroad bed nestled beneath the bustling Interstate 26. This innovative project will introduce not one, but two distinct paths: a sweeping 12-foot-wide bike trail catering to cyclists, and a 10-foot-wide walkway meticulously designed for pedestrians. A lushly landscaped median will separate these paths, creating a harmonious environment conducive to outdoor activity.

Adding Green Spaces and Enhancements

Additionally, city leaders are eyeing the opportunity to integrate Newmarket Creek into the Lowline initiative, envisioning it as a potential park area. This serene creek flows beneath I-26 and into the majestic Cooper River, providing a unique aquatic element to the project. A city spokesperson emphasized the pressing necessity of adding amenities to forge connections across various scenic locales, allowing residents to engage more actively with the city’s vibrant outdoor life.

A Vision Rooted in Community

The Lowcountry Lowline has its roots planted firmly in a visionary plan that dates back to 2015. The project aspires to create a multi-use pathway that synergizes several neighborhoods, including West Ashley, North Charleston, downtown Charleston, and Mount Pleasant. This initiative is more than just a path; it represents a chance to reconnect neighborhoods that have been historically divided by the development of I-26, enhancing mobility for both bikers and pedestrians.

Financial Expectations and Community Benefits

The first construction phase also includes surface parking lots positioned at Sheppard and Huger streets. Officials anticipate that these lots will generate approximately $1 million annually, which will be dedicated to the upkeep and maintenance of the surrounding parks. This venture stands to benefit the community not only by improving recreational spaces but also by creating sustainable financial support for ongoing park operations.

Upcoming Decisions and Future Phases

The Charleston City Council is slated to cast their vote on this critical contract during their meeting on April 8, 2025. If all goes according to plan, groundbreaking activities for this transformative project could commence as early as October 2025. Moreover, a significant grant request amounting to $6 million from NOAA for the restoration of Newmarket Creek is under consideration. This funding could significantly enhance the area’s flooding capacity and resilience.

Building a Walkable Future

The Lowcountry Lowline has not only caught the attention of Charleston officials but has also attracted engagement from the PATH Foundation, an organization with a proven track record of delivering similar projects in other locales. City officials have expressed a renewed commitment to bolstering walkability and connectivity throughout the Charleston area.

Safety and Accessibility Measures

As part of the initiative, there will also be mid-block crossings at critical intersections with major streets, aimed at enhancing safety for both pedestrians and cyclists. Future phases of the project may expand to include additional park areas and enhanced connectivity to Marion Square, further weaving the fabric of the community.

As the city stands on the cusp of this exciting new chapter, stakeholders from different sectors are optimistic about the opportunities the Lowcountry Lowline will bring, paving the way for an enriched outdoor experience and revitalized neighborhoods across Charleston.