Three small businesses in Citadel Mall, West Ashley, S.C.—Charleston Area Model Railroad Club (opened 2008), Arc Take 2 (2022), and Charleston Planetarium (2025)—must vacate by May 31, 2026. MUSC bought over 330,000 sq ft of the mall on Dec 12, 2025, to convert it into clinics, specialty care, and outpatient facilities. Leases ended with late February notice, forcing quick relocations amid high rents.
Business Impacts
- Model Railroad Club (non-profit): Struggling with costs; scouting mall spots but excluded from “grandfathered” leases despite 16 years there. Secretary Bryce Lewis seeks community leads on spaces or brokers.
- Arc Take 2: Owner Sarah Dionna plans to shut down, rebrand as nonprofit “The Garden of Arts,” and reopen in Summerville, S.C.
- Planetarium: Limited details, but facing same short-notice strain.
Anchor stores like Belk, Dillard’s, and Target stay open.
MUSC’s Rationale
Spokesperson Faith Arenth says the expansion boosts access to clinical trials, prevention, and cancer screening. South Carolina expects a 20% cancer rise by 2028, targeting West Ashley and nearby areas for better care.
Community Angle
Tenants feel emotional, calling the space “like a home” with fond memories. They’re grateful for support and urge locals to help with relocation tips to keep family-friendly spots alive.
This shift trades retail vibes for healthcare growth—progress for some, tough break for others. Got thoughts on similar local changes in Haryana, or want updates on SC news?
