The current view standing on the Union Pier property and looking out. | Photo by CHStoday team
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.”
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.
Wool Felt Christmas Tree Workshop | Monday, Nov. 20 | 5:30-8:30 p.m. | Middleton Place, 4300 Ashley River Rd., Charleston | $135 | Put a personal touch on your holiday decor and make a centerpiece for your next gathering — wine + charcuterie will be available during the workshop.
Book Signing with Raquel Willis | Monday, Nov. 20 | 5 p.m. | College of Charleston School of Education Alumni Center, 86 Wentworth St., Charleston | $0-$75 | Join keynote speaker + author Raquel Willis who will sign her debut memoir, “The Risk It Takes to Bloom.”
Wednesday, Nov. 22
Laughway to the Weekend | Wednesday, Nov. 22 | 8 p.m. | Theatre 99, 280 Meeting St., Ste. B, Charleston | $10 | Laugh it up with an improv comedy show featuring three acts.
Friday, Nov. 24
Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza | Friday, Nov. 24 | 4 p.m. | North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center, 5001 Coliseum Dr., North Charleston | $22-$75 | Clear bags are encouraged at this event with your kids’ favorite Disney Jr. characters.
Saturday, Nov. 25
Official Liverpool Supporters Club Game | Saturday, Nov. 25 | 11:30 a.m. | Brewlab Charleston, 2200 Heriot St., Charleston | Free | You’ll never walk alone when you’re with fellow Lowcountry Liverpool fans.
This holiday season shop for unique gifts from our small business partners. | Photo by 6AM City
Our online shop (Six & Main), a site that celebrates small businesses locally and in our 25 sister markets, is dishing out major deals this holiday season. From coffee to artwork and apparel, there’s a gift for everyone.
Black Friday
30% off items included in our gift guides for her + him
Election day is tomorrow, Nov. 21. On the ballot will be the Charleston mayor’s race, Charleston City Council District 9, and the Folly Beach City Council race. Find where to vote.
Biz
Three hospitals sold in a $2.4 billion deal, including the East Cooper Medical Center in Mount Pleasant. The deal is between the current owner, Tenet Healthcare Corp. and Winston Salem buyer, Novant Health. (The Post and Courier)
Edu
Free tuition? The incoming fall 2024 class of Charleston Southern University may get it. CSU promises to be the first private school in SC to cover tuition. (Charleston Regional Business Journal)
State
Three regional filmmakers have been selected for the 2023-24 INDIE GRANTS program by the SC Film Commission. The chosen projects include “Lazzo” from North Charleston, “The Off-Brands” from Columbia, and “Clonely” from Greenville.
Number
$10.7 billion. That’s the economic impact of South Carolina Ports in the Lowcountry. With a deeper Charleston Harbor and a newly modernized Wando Walch Terminal, SC Ports is more equipped than ever for efficient operations that promote Lowcountry business growth. Learn how port investments are making a big impact.*
Travel
Did you know? Greenville, SC is a pet-friendly haven for travelers. Plan the paw-fect trip with these dog-friendly experiences.*
Stat
1 in 3 neighbors are struggling to afford all of life’s essentials (think: food, housing, and healthcare). This stat represents 581,290 South Carolina households known as ALICE® (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). By supporting Trident United Way, you’re helping your neighbors thrive and strengthening our whole state.*
A Black Friday deal on the ultimate gift: A Bwine F7 GPS Camera Drone. They’ll have fun flying it and capturing incredible footage. Get it for $529.99 $370.99.
Reader Donna P. asked where the Charleston edition of MONOPOLY could be purchased. Good question, Donna. If you’re also planning your next family game night, you can buy it online.
Or wait a bit and it will be available at shops like the Wonder Works Toys, and Record Stop Charleston.
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