Charleston, July 24, 2025
News Summary
Charleston is set to improve its community recreation options with two new facilities approved by the City Council, funded by a $70 million bond. The projects include the modern replacement of W.L. Stephens Recreation Center and the first city-operated center on Johns Island. Each facility will feature an array of new amenities, aimed at fostering well-being and community engagement. The design phase has commenced, with construction expected to start next summer.
Charleston is taking significant steps to enhance its community recreation facilities with the approval of two new recreation centers funded by a recent $70 million bond referendum. The Charleston City Council has allocated $3.3 million to initiate the design phase for both projects, which are integral to the city’s Parks & Recreation Master Plan.
Projects Overview
The first project involves the demolition of the existing W.L. Stephens Recreation Center in West Ashley, which was built in the 1970s, and its replacement with a modern facility. The new W.L. Stephens center will be a cutting-edge complex spanning between 24,000 and 28,000 square feet, featuring numerous amenities including:
- A 25-meter by 25-yard indoor pool
- An adjacent therapy pool designed for swimming lessons, water aerobics, and rehabilitation
- A multi-purpose community room
- Office and support spaces for staff
- A contemporary playground
- New tennis and basketball courts
- The existing Miracle League Baseball Field will remain unchanged
The second project will mark a first for Johns Island, as residents will finally have access to a city-operated recreation facility. This center will be constructed near Maybank Highway and close to the Hayes Park development, covering approximately 50,000 square feet. Planned features at the Johns Island facility include:
- A 25-meter by 25-yard indoor pool and a therapy pool
- An indoor gymnasium with two full basketball courts
- Cardio and group fitness rooms
- A multi-purpose room, two classroom spaces, and a catering kitchen
- Outdoor amenities such as pickleball and basketball courts, an inclusive playground, and a splash pad
Design and Timeline
Both facilities will be designed by the Charleston-based architectural firm LS3P. The City Council anticipates reviewing construction contracts in August, with permitting expected to take around one year. Construction on both recreation centers is slated to begin next summer and is projected to last approximately 18 months.
Community Engagement
Community members will have opportunities to participate by attending presentations and providing feedback on the projects this fall. The city aims to ensure that the development of these facilities aligns with the needs and desires of local residents.
Conclusion
The new recreation centers demonstrate Charleston’s commitment to enhancing community engagement through quality recreational facilities, fostering active lifestyles, and creating spaces for social interaction. As these projects move forward, the city looks forward to strengthening its neighborhoods and providing dynamic spaces for recreation and wellness.
FAQ
What are the two new recreation centers being built in Charleston?
The two new recreation centers include a replacement for the W.L. Stephens Recreation Center in West Ashley and a new facility on Johns Island.
How much funding is being used for these recreation centers?
A total of $70 million in bond funding has been approved for the recreation projects, with $3.3 million allocated to start the design phase.
What amenities will be included in the W.L. Stephens Recreation Center?
The new W.L. Stephens center will feature an indoor pool, therapy pool, community room, modern playground, and new sports courts among other amenities.
Where will the Johns Island recreation center be located?
The Johns Island facility will be located near Maybank Highway next to the Hayes Park development.
When will construction start on the new recreation centers?
Construction is anticipated to begin in the summer of the following year and will last approximately 18 months.
Key Features Comparison
| Feature | W.L. Stephens Center | Johns Island Center |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor Pool | Yes | Yes |
| Therapy Pool | Yes | Yes |
| Gymnasium | No | 2 full basketball courts |
| Modern Playground | Yes | Inclusive Playground |
| Outdoor Sports Courts | Tennis and basketball courts | Pickleball and basketball courts |
| Multi-Purpose Room | Yes | Yes |
| Catering Kitchen | No | Yes |
| Splash Pad | No | Yes |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Wildfires Prompt State of Emergency in South Carolina
South Carolina Declares State of Emergency as Wildfires Spread
North Charleston City Council Prioritizes Community Enhancements
New Aquatics and Recreation Center for Johns Island
The Lowcountry Gears Up for Rare Winter Storm
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Charleston City Leaders Announce 2 New Parks Projects
- Wikipedia: Charleston
- Count On 2: College of Charleston to Host Community Meeting on Student Housing Project
- Google Search: Charleston community meeting student housing
- Count On 2: Charleston Approves Major Recreation Upgrades for West Ashley and Johns Island
- Google Scholar: Charleston recreation upgrades
- ABC News 4: City of North Charleston Bringing Improvements to Union Heights Community Center
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston
- CHS Today: Lowcountry Conservation Projects and Greenbelt Funding
- Google News: Lowcountry conservation projects
- Charleston Business: Nonprofit Completes $1.7M Greenspace Project on Johns Island
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
