Charleston, SC Economic Development

Current Initiatives

University/Industry Collaboration

In a unique collaborative model, South Carolina's research universities partner to advance academic and industry research. Programs include Health Sciences South Carolina (supporting medical research), and South Carolina Centers of Economic Excellence (capitalizing on the state's unique advantages).

Sustainable Development

MeadWestvaco is focused on a conservation-driven master plan for East Edisto, a 72,000-acre tract along the eastern edge of the Edisto River in Charleston and Dorchester counties. The company is working with experts in land use planning, conservation and recreation management throughout the planning process.

Our Future Workforce

New legislation requires South Carolina school districts to organize curriculum around 16 career clusters beginning in the 8th grade. Called Personal Pathways to Success, the program is designed to help students acquire globally competitive knowledge and skills.

Planning for Growth

To kick-start the development of a regional land use plan, the Urban Land Institute's "Reality Check" brought together a diverse group of stakeholders – including elected officials, developers, environmentalists, and business and civic leaders – to foster collective visioning around community growth. Charleston was only the 6th community to perform the exercise in the country.

Urban Redevelopment

Two major urban redevelopment projects are underway in Charleston County. Noisette involves a 3,000-acre area in North Charleston being restored as a sustainable community. Magnolia involves 500 acres (much of it industrial brownfields) set along 2.5 miles of riverfront property at the upper end of the Charleston peninsula.

Infrastructure Improvements

Work begins this spring to widen I-26 to eight lanes between I-526 and Ashley Phosphate Road. I-26 is the main artery into and out of the Charleston region. The Port of Charleston is making progress on its new three-berth, 280-acre container terminal. The 171-acre first phase is slated to open in early 2013. Learn more about Charleston's intermodal transportation.

Clemson University Restoration Institute

Master planning has begun on the 82-acre Clemson University Restoration Institute (CURI) research campus. CURI is the first formal academic initiative in the nation focused on the restoration economy. Focus areas include advanced materials, healthy communities, historic preservation and materials conservation, renewable energy and restoration ecology.

Alternative Transportation

Efforts are underway to promote transportation options to ease roadway congestion and promote healthy lifestyles. Several groups in the region are studying commuter rail feasibility. The City of Charleston has appointed a 12-member Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee. Charleston Moves is an advocacy group for better bicycle, pedestrian and mass transit options.

Charleston Inspired

Businesses and organizations from throughout the region are uniting under the brand theme of "inspiration." One of the first brand campaigns, getinspiredcharleston, is a grassroots effort targeting local residents. Other initiatives are in the works.

When Work Works

The Charleston region is one of a handful of communities participating in a national initiative on workplace flexibility. "When Work Works" highlights the importance of effective and flexible workplaces as strategies to enhance global competitiveness.