News Summary
Local residents and the Lowcountry Land Trust have successfully secured permanent protection for Red Top Park, a 6-acre property in Charleston. Previously slated for commercial use, the park will now remain a vital green space for recreation and local wildlife, while also holding historical significance as the site of the former Red Top Rosenwald School. Future plans for the park include enhancing it with trails and restoring the original school building.
Charleston Community Wins Permanent Protection for Red Top Park
Charleston has secured permanent protection for Red Top Park, a vital 6-acre property within the Red Top community, thanks to the efforts of local residents and the nonprofit Lowcountry Land Trust. This achievement comes as a significant development amidst ongoing pressures from housing construction in the West Ashley area.
The park, located off Old Charleston Road, was previously owned by the Charleston County School District, which had designated it for commercial-light industrial use. The property had been under a lease agreement held by the Red Top community since 2007, but that contract was set to expire in August 2027. Community members recognized the importance of preserving the space, which has served various events including medical clinics, sports leagues, free lunch programs, and parades.
In November, the Charleston County Council allocated $805,000 in greenbelt funds for the purchase of the park. The acquisition was completed in April, after which the property was transferred to the Red Top Improvement Association for the establishment of a conservation easement. This guarantees the park’s preservation for future generations.
Historical Significance
Red Top Park is not just a recreational area; it is steeped in history. Once the site of the Red Top Rosenwald School established in 1927, it was a critical educational facility for African American children at a time when access to quality education was limited. The Rosenwald schools, funded by the philanthropic efforts of Julius Rosenwald, saw over 5,000 such institutions built across the Southern United States, with approximately 500 in South Carolina alone.
Melody Dover, president of the Red Top Improvement Association, highlighted the park’s role as a community staple. In addition to its historical significance, the property plays a crucial role in supporting local wildlife and preserving habitats connected to the Stono River and Rantowles Creek.
Future Plans for Red Top Park
The community has ambitious plans for the park’s future, which include enhancing it with trails and a dock to provide access to the marsh along Rantowles Creek. Additionally, a long-term goal is to reconstruct the original Rosenwald school building to serve not only as a historical landmark but also as a resource for community use.
Context: Development Pressures in West Ashley
This preservation effort comes at a critical time when the Red Top community is facing significant development challenges. With plans for nearly 6,000 homes in the surrounding West Ashley area, the community is under pressure from ongoing housing projects, including the large Long Savanna development, which plans to include 4,500 homes and has been in discussions for nearly 20 years.
In light of these pressures, the protection of Red Top Park is viewed as a significant victory for local residents. The efforts to preserve this green space reflect a broader commitment to maintaining the community’s character and natural heritage amidst sweeping changes and urban expansion.
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Additional Resources
- Charleston Business
- Live 5 News
- Post and Courier
- Savannah Now
- Wikipedia: Red Top School
- Google Search: Red Top Park Charleston
