Johns Island's Green Future: A Vote on Parks and Farms

Last Thursday, Charleston County's finance committee gathered to decide on 18 greenbelt projects. These projects are funded by the county's transportation sales tax. All but one project got the green light. The exception was a $1. 6 million plan for 40 acres on Johns Island's Main Road. The Lowcountry Land Trust wants to buy this land, add a conservation easement, and give it to the Barrier Island Little League. This nonprofit kids' sports group has been around since the 1950s and needs more space for their teams. Natalie Olson, the Sea Islands Program Director for the Land Trust, explained that about a third of the land would be used for sports fields, with bleachers, lights, and parking. The Little League would have priority, but the public could use the fields when they're not in use. The rest of the land would be open to the public for walking trails during the day. Some committee members questioned how much the public would really get to use the fields, as the Little League has a long season and might partner with other groups. One council member, Jenny Honeycutt, noted that the landowner, Horres Enterprises Inc. , has criticized Charleston County in the past. However, she supports the project because it benefits local kids and preserves land. The project will go to the county council next week for final approval. Another approved project is a $2. 9 million, 94. 4-acre property called Grayson Oaks. The Land Trust wants to keep this farmland and let the public engage with agriculture through field trips, dinners, and tours. They also plan to add walking trails connecting to nearby areas. All 18 projects need final approval from the county council next week. If approved, these projects will move forward in the next few months.