The City of Charleston is progressing with the approval process to begin construction on the Lowline, a highly anticipated multi-use path that will stretch along the old Norfolk Southern rail line from Mount Pleasant Street to Line Street. The project aims to create a vibrant space for pedestrians, cyclists, and the community, while providing a new park that will offer much-needed green space in the heart of the city.
The Lowline: Connecting Communities with New Infrastructure
The Lowline will not only provide a scenic path but will also enhance connectivity between downtown Charleston neighborhoods. The path will extend for several miles, passing through areas that have long been disconnected from the rest of the city. A significant feature of the project is a new park at Line Street, which will be about a third of the size of Marion Square. This park will provide green space for outdoor activities, events, and relaxation for residents and visitors alike.
The Lowline will also cross major east-west streets in downtown Charleston, including Huger Street, Romney Street, and Cypress Street. To ensure pedestrian and cyclist safety, the city plans to implement well-designed crossings at these intersections. According to Josh Martin, a City of Charleston advisor, these crossings will feature traffic calming measures to slow down vehicles and signals to ensure safe passage for pedestrians and cyclists.
City Takes Control of Street Sections for Improved Crosswalks
In an effort to streamline the project and have more control over construction, the city plans to take over ownership of certain street sections from the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT). This will allow for better control over crosswalk designs and construction, as the materials used for these crosswalks may not be approved by the DOT. This approach is similar to the city’s previous actions with Murray Boulevard, where the city took over ownership to implement its own improvements.
By taking control of these roads, the city can ensure that the Lowline’s crossings are safe, accessible, and integrated into the surrounding environment. The city’s goal is to make the path as user-friendly as possible for everyone who will use it.
Parking Lots to Support the Lowline and Generate Revenue
In addition to the main Lowline path, the city council is considering the construction of three paid parking lots along the trail. These parking lots will serve as access points for visitors to the Lowline, allowing people to easily park and explore the trail and park areas.
The revenue generated from these parking lots will be reinvested into maintaining the Lowline, including cleaning and upkeep. The parking lots will essentially act as an endowment for the project, ensuring its long-term sustainability without relying on additional public funding.
Project Timelines and Next Steps
Once the City Council grants full approval, construction on the parking lots could begin as soon as a week after the July 15 meeting. Additionally, the city hopes to break ground on the Line Street Park within the next 90 days, further advancing the Lowline project.
With construction moving forward, the Lowline is set to become a key piece of Charleston’s infrastructure, promoting healthy living, sustainable transportation, and community engagement.
