North Charleston, July 27, 2025
News Summary
North Charleston has launched a $25 million infrastructure initiative to enhance neighborhood safety and walkability through new sidewalks, playgrounds, and street signs. However, the funding distribution and lack of transparency have drawn criticism, prompting concerns regarding older neighborhoods. As new projects, including sidewalk construction on East Bay Street, begin, community engagement is crucial for addressing local infrastructure needs effectively.
North Charleston has made strides in enhancing its infrastructure through the implementation of new sidewalks, playgrounds, speed humps, street signs, and drainage improvements. As part of a significant initiative launched in 2021, the city distributed $25 million evenly among its ten City Council members for various infrastructure projects in their districts. The goal of this funding was to improve neighborhood environments and promote walkability for residents.
As of July 2025, all allocated funds have been dispersed, although many projects have yet to be completed. The division of funding has attracted criticism, with some claiming it has led to a fragmented approach, known as “balkanization,” where the diverse infrastructure needs of the city are not effectively addressed. Older neighborhoods, such as Union Heights, Liberty, and Accabee, continue to lag behind newer developments like Wescott Plantation and King’s Grant in terms of sidewalk availability, raising concerns about safety and accessibility.
The funding distribution plan, approved by former Mayor Keith Summey, has also faced allegations of enabling corruption within the council. Federal corruption charges have been filed against two council members, prompting questions about the transparency of the financial allocation process. Critics argue that public improvements should undergo a citywide analysis to ensure an equitable distribution of resources, rather than being allocated based on political considerations.
Amid these challenges, the construction of new sidewalks on East Bay Street is set to commence within the next 30 to 45 days, targeting completion by the end of this year at an estimated cost of nearly $150,000. These new sidewalks will span 310 feet and will incorporate essential safety features, including granite curbs and accessible ramps for individuals with disabilities.
City Council members are encouraged to engage with their communities to better understand local infrastructure needs and advocate for appropriate projects. Road safety remains a critical issue in North Charleston, where four of the five deadliest roads in the county are located. This makes the construction of sidewalks and related improvements imperative for pedestrian safety. The $25 million funding has been utilized for various projects, including sidewalk improvements, drainage enhancements, community center renovations, and road-related upgrades, although this amount represents only a small fraction of the funding needed to adequately address all sidewalk and infrastructure issues in North Charleston.
Residents in older neighborhoods have consistently reported hazardous walking conditions due to the absence of sidewalks, which raises significant safety concerns for pedestrians in these areas. As the city works to implement these improvements, ongoing assessments of community needs will be essential to ensure that all residents benefit from enhanced infrastructure.
FAQ
What are the key improvements made in North Charleston?
Key improvements include new sidewalks, playgrounds, speed humps, street signs, and drainage enhancements aimed at improving neighborhood infrastructure and pedestrian safety.
How much funding was allocated for infrastructure projects in North Charleston?
North Charleston allocated a total of $25 million, evenly distributed among ten City Council members for projects in their respective districts.
What are current challenges faced in improving infrastructure?
Challenges include criticism of the funding allocation leading to a fragmented approach to infrastructure needs, as well as issues of transparency due to corruption allegations against council members.
Key Features of North Charleston’s Infrastructure Projects
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding Amount | $25 million |
| Distribution Method | Evenly among 10 City Council members |
| Target Areas | Older neighborhoods like Union Heights, Liberty, Accabee |
| New Sidewalk Construction | East Bay Street, 310 feet, $150,000 |
| Safety Features | Granite curbs and accessible ramps |
| Road Safety Concerns | Four out of five deadliest roads in the county located in North Charleston |
| Community Participation | Encouragement for Council Member advocacy based on community input |
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Additional Resources
- The Post and Courier: North Charleston District’s Sidewalks Bad
- Live 5 News: Charleston County Council Moving Forward with New Downtown Charleston Sidewalk
- The Post and Courier: Infrastructure Projects Sidewalks North Charleston
- Live 5 News: SCDOT Conduct Sidewalk Curb Work Downtown Charleston
- Count on 2: Charleston County Council Pushes for New Infrastructure on Rivers Avenue
- Wikipedia: North Charleston
- Google Search: Charleston infrastructure news
- Google Scholar: North Charleston infrastructure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston
- Google News: North Charleston infrastructure
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