The Union Pier project is moving forward... but with a new team and a new plan. Here’s everything you need to know to pier into the future of the project.
A quick refresher
The big idea: Transform a ~70-acre property (along the eastern edge of the Charleston Peninsula) into a city center — including taller buildings, smaller blocks, and areas of highest elevation.
Changes in the project
In case you missed it, SC Ports and Los Angeles-based developer Lowe terminated their joint agreement to redevelop Union Pier earlier this November. The planning timeline was also extended to craft a way forward that reflects the community’s priorities.
The Riley Center for Livable Communities at the College of Charleston now leads the development project and has selected the team to help transform the site:
- Sasaki will take the helm as the lead design firm. Fred Merrill, the Principal of the firm, plans to “Find out what the community wants, and then we begin to craft the plan around their various desires.”
- Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects will use research to assist in cultural + ecological planning.
- James Lima Planning + Development comes in for economic analysis.
- Local experts like The Asiko Group (based in North Charleston) will drive community outreach with help from Georgia-based urban design firm, Sottile & Sottile.
The team plans to have a final design concept by the end of spring 2024.