A major redevelopment project for Mount Pleasant Towne Centre is moving forward with the approval of the 2025 master plan by the town’s planning commission. The plan is set to transform the popular shopping destination into a more dynamic space, offering a mix of housing, office space, green areas, and family entertainment.
Details of the Redevelopment Plan
The new development plan will introduce up to 421 residential units, more than 87,000 square feet of office space, and 188 hotel rooms. The project will be rolled out in phases, with construction contingent on anchor tenants like Belk and Regal Palmetto Grande vacating their current spaces.
Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie emphasized that the goal of the redevelopment is to create a long-term, livable community that incorporates mixed-use areas, attainable housing, and more green spaces. “You get one shot to redevelop something like this,” said Haynie. “What we want is a more livable community … mixed use, attainable housing, and more green space.”
Focus on Family Entertainment and Affordable Housing
A key feature of the plan is the inclusion of at least 60,000 square feet dedicated to family-friendly entertainment, such as an ice rink or trampoline park. The proposal also commits to ensuring that 25% of all new housing will be designated as “attainable,” aiming to provide affordable housing options in the area.
However, the plan is also mindful of the town’s educational needs. Haynie made it clear that no new housing will be approved until the Charleston County School District addresses school zoning to prevent overcrowding in schools. “We are not going to allow anything that’s going to cause overcrowding at their schools,” he said.
Pushback from Longtime Residents
Despite the enthusiasm from some community leaders, the redevelopment plan has sparked concerns among some longtime residents. Jessica Jones, a Mount Pleasant resident of 13 years, voiced her concerns about the potential impact on the area. “We’ve lived here 13 years. My daughter meets her friends here, we go to the movies, the restaurants, the bookstore,” said Jones. “I think this would drastically change the Town Centre we love.”
