The Future of Union Pier

The State Ports Authority (SPA) is poised to redevelop the 70-acre Union Pier site in the historic district along the Cooper River. Redevelopment of Union Pier is a critically important opportunity for Charleston. SPA has engaged the LOWE development team to lead the master planning effort.

SPA kickoff event

Last week, HCF was excited to participate in SPA’s initial kick-off event for the future of Union Pier. The Port’s recently appointed CEO Barbara Melvin spoke and committed to a collaborative public process to guide the new master plan and to create a new peninsula neighborhood that prioritizes the community’s needs. The current passenger cruise terminal will remain and welcome port-of-call passengers, but it will receive much-needed upgrades and could also become an event space.

Bennett Rice Mill

The remainder of the Union Pier site’s future will be driven by Charleston’s needs and wants. This fall the agency will host additional public events to seek ideas and feedback to inform the plan and hopes to pursue zoning approvals from the city starting in early 2023. While this is an aggressive timeframe, HCF is committed to making sure Union Pier becomes a vibrant neighborhood that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors, advocating for the community’s desires, and ensuring the public is informed and engaged.HCF Broad Priorities for the Future of Union Pier:

• Stabilization and Preservation of the Bennett Rice Mill
• Public Access to the Waterfront through Parks and Open Space
• Improved Resiliency and Flood Mitigation
• Creation of a Vibrant New Peninsula Neighborhood
• High Quality Architectural Design that Adheres to Charleston’s Historic Scale and Form