Charleston city leaders are advancing plans to purchase up to 2.5 acres at and around 899 Morrison Drive, site of the Waterfront Employers International Longshoreman Association Pension and Welfare Fund building, for up to $17.5 million using Cooper River Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds expiring in 2032, to support affordable housing development. The Committee on Ways and Means is considering authorizing Mayor William Cogswell to sign a letter of intent, aligning with the city’s goal of adding 3,500 affordable units by 2032 amid rapid growth and rising real estate prices. District 8 Councilmember Mike Seekings noted early-stage discussions with all options open, emphasizing regional housing needs for workers.​
Recent Developments
A proposed deal for nearby Morrison Drive properties collapsed in late November 2025 when City Council rejected a $30 million county offer due to a $12 million appraisal gap, hindering the 3,500-unit initiative. Mayor Cogswell presented mixed-use, mixed-income plans to the Community Development Committee, targeting 50% affordable units zoned at 80 per acre with private sector funding partnerships starting in Q1 2026.​
Broader Initiatives
Charleston Housing Authority gained approval for a 77-unit redevelopment at 275 Huger Street, replacing an aging structure with modern affordable homes by 2027, complementing projects at Gadsden Green and others. Charleston County allocated $1.6 million in ARPA funds to four projects like West Ashley Multifamily Workforce, requiring construction within two years. An affordable housing dashboard tracks proposed units, with 178 added since 2024 versus an average of 57 annually from 2017-2023.
