Charleston, August 14, 2025
News Summary
Charleston is set to begin a major restoration project for the historic smokestacks at the St. Julian Devine Community Center. This initiative aims to preserve an essential piece of the city’s heritage following concerns about their structural integrity. With a projected cost of nearly $3 million and completion expected by early 2026, the extensive work will involve stabilizing the smokestacks and ensuring their resilience against hurricane-force winds. Local support is strong, underscoring the community’s commitment to preserving its history.
Charleston is set to begin a significant restoration project for the historic smokestacks located at the St. Julian Devine Community Center. This renovation initiative, expected to commence this week, is aimed at preserving an important piece of the city’s history and is projected to be completed by early 2026.
Concerns regarding the structural integrity of the smokestacks, raised in 2020, have led city officials to prioritize the restoration effort. The smokestacks, once a part of Charleston’s municipal trash incinerator built in 1935, were found to pose a hazard to nearby residents and have been the subject of ongoing evaluations by city leaders. They explored three strategic options over the years: complete restoration, partial restoration, and complete demolition.
Ultimately, a full restoration was approved by city officials with a projected budget of nearly $3 million. This project will be led by a contractor who has prior experience with the smokestacks and will ensure that the renovations comply with current safety standards, especially to withstand hurricane-force winds.
Scope of Restoration Work
The restoration will involve a comprehensive approach, addressing both the exterior and interior of the smokestacks. Key components of the work include:
- Stabilizing the exterior: The existing steel “corsets” and reinforcing bands will be removed.
- Brick replacement: Cracked or damaged bricks will be replaced to restore the structural integrity of the smokestacks.
- Interior reinforcement: Enhancements will comply with safety codes to ensure resilience against strong winds.
- Structural masonry and shotcrete: New reinforcing materials will be covered with structural masonry and shotcrete lining for added stability.
Historical Context
The smokestacks have served as a significant landmark in Charleston, originally linked to the municipal trash incinerator that operated until the 1960s. Following the closure of the incineration facility, the site was redeveloped into a community center in the 1970s and was named in 1992 to honor St. Julian F. Devine, a pioneering figure in the city’s government and the first African American elected to the Charleston City Council since Reconstruction.
Community Support and Funding
The restoration project has garnered substantial local support, with community outreach indicating strong sentiment towards the preservation of the smokestacks. City leaders recognize their importance to the Eastside’s skyline and community identity. A previous stabilization effort was conducted in 2020, but the newly allocated funding will facilitate a complete restoration.
Funding for the project primarily derives from the Cooper River Tax Increment Financing (TIF) fund, designed to collect revenues from new developments in the surrounding area. The city intends to complete the work before the peak of hurricane season to ensure the safety and security of the surrounding community.
Conclusion
The restoration of the historic smokestacks at the St. Julian Devine Community Center is a vital effort that underscores Charleston’s commitment to preserving its history and enhancing community pride. As the project gets underway, it is set to become a symbol of resilience and heritage for residents and visitors alike.
FAQ
Why are the smokestacks being restored?
The smokestacks are being restored to address structural concerns that were identified in 2020. The restoration aims to preserve an important historical landmark and ensure the safety of nearby residents.
What will the restoration process involve?
The restoration will include stabilizing the exterior, replacing damaged bricks, reinforcing the interior, and adding structural masonry and shotcrete for additional stability.
When is the restoration expected to be completed?
The restoration work is expected to be completed by early 2026.
Who is funding the restoration project?
Funding for the restoration primarily comes from the Cooper River Tax Increment Financing (TIF) fund, which collects money from new developments in the area.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Start Date | This week |
| Projected Completion Date | Early 2026 |
| Estimated Cost | Nearly $3 million |
| Funding Source | Cooper River TIF fund |
| Construction Actions | Stabilizing exterior, replacing bricks, reinforcing interior |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Count on 2 News
- Wikipedia: Charleston, South Carolina
- ABC News 4
- Google Search: Charleston smokestacks restoration
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Historical Landmark
- Live 5 News
- Google News: Charleston smokestacks
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