Charleston SC, July 29, 2025
News Summary
The Charleston City Council has approved $3.3 million for the construction of two new recreation centers aimed at enhancing community facilities. One center will redevelop the outdated W.L. Stephens Aquatic Center in West Ashley while the other will be Johns Island’s first city-operated recreation center. With features like indoor pools, multi-sport courts, and spaces for community activities, these projects will address the growing demand for modern recreational options. Construction is set to begin in late 2026, with completion anticipated by the end of 2027.
Charleston City Council Approves $3.3 Million for New Recreation Centers in West Ashley and Johns Island
Charleston City has taken a significant step towards enhancing local recreational facilities by approving two contracts totaling $3.3 million for the construction of new recreation centers. The approved projects include the redevelopment of the W.L. Stephens Aquatic Center in West Ashley and the establishment of Johns Island’s first city-operated recreation center.
The W.L. Stephens Aquatic Center, which was originally built in the 1970s and has since become outdated, will undergo complete demolition and rebuilding. The new facility is planned to span between 24,000 and 28,000 square feet and will feature a variety of amenities including a 25-meter indoor pool with a depth suitable for diving, a therapy pool, a multipurpose room, and both tennis and basketball courts. Additionally, plans include accommodating the Charleston Miracle League and providing enhanced parking options for visitors.
On Johns Island, the recreation center will be strategically positioned off Maybank Highway, near the intersection of Hay and Walpole roads. This center is projected to have an approximate area of 50,000 square feet, making it double the size of the renewed W.L. Stephens Aquatic Center. Designed to cater to a wide range of recreational activities, this facility will contain a pool, therapy pool, two basketball courts, a gymnasium, a fitness room, pickleball courts, and a splash pad for children.
Both projects are backed by a $70 million bond referendum that was passed by voters in 2023, aimed at improving parks and recreational opportunities throughout Charleston. The construction timeline is anticipated to begin in late 2026, with hopes of completing the facilities by the end of 2027, pending necessary permitting processes and contract evaluations.
Local residents have expressed their anticipation for these new recreational facilities, highlighting the accessibility they will provide for community members. The architectural firm LS3P, based in Charleston, will design both centers. To align the projects with community needs and preferences, public input sessions will be organized to gather feedback and suggest adjustments to the final designs.
The enhancements both centers propose aim to foster better community life, health, and sporting opportunities for Charleston residents, addressing the growing need for updated recreational spaces in the area.
Background Context
The original W.L. Stephens Aquatic Center, established over 50 years ago, has served as a vital location for community aquatics and events. However, over time, it has fallen behind in terms of modern facilities and offerings. The decision to demolish and rebuild aims to revitalize this key community space.
The establishment of a recreational center on Johns Island marks a significant development as it will be the first city-operated facility in the area, responding to increasing demand for local recreational opportunities. The county has seen population growth and a corresponding need for accessible and diverse recreational options for its residents.
FAQ
What are the two main projects approved by the Charleston City Council?
The Charleston City Council has approved contracts for the redevelopment of the W.L. Stephens Aquatic Center in West Ashley and the establishment of a new recreation center on Johns Island.
When is the construction of the new facilities expected to start?
Construction is estimated to begin in late 2026.
What amenities will the new W.L. Stephens Aquatic Center include?
The new center will have a 25-meter indoor pool, a therapy pool, multipurpose room, inclusive playground, and new tennis and basketball courts.
How large will the Johns Island recreation center be?
The Johns Island facility is expected to be around 50,000 square feet.
How are these projects being funded?
Both projects are funded through a $70 million bond referendum that was approved by voters in 2023.
When are the new recreation centers expected to be completed?
The completion of both centers is hoped for by the end of 2027, contingent on the permitting process and contract evaluations.
Key Features Comparison
| Feature | W.L. Stephens Aquatic Center | Johns Island Recreation Center |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 24,000 – 28,000 sq. ft. | 50,000 sq. ft. |
| Indoor Pool | 25-meter | Yes |
| Therapy Pool | Yes | Yes |
| Multipurpose Room | Yes | Not specified |
| Inclusive Playground | Yes | No |
| Tennis Courts | Yes | No |
| Basketball Courts | Yes | 2 |
| Gymnasium | No | Yes |
| Fitness Room | No | Yes |
| Pickleball Courts | No | Yes |
| Splash Pad | No | Yes |
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Additional Resources
- Charleston Business: Recreation Centers in West Ashley and Johns Island
- Post and Courier: Recreation Centers Update
- ABC News 4: Cooling Centers in Charleston
- Live 5 News: New Parks Projects Announcement
- Count On 2: List of Cooling Centers in Charleston
- Wikipedia: Recreation
- Google Search: Charleston Recreation Centers
- Google Scholar: Charleston Recreation Facilities
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Recreation
- Google News: Charleston Recreation Centers
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.
