Progress on Concerns

In a long-awaited rendezvous, Port Royal Mayor Kevin Phillips finally sat down with representatives from Safe Harbor Marinas on Thursday, Feb. 1, at the Town Hall in Port Royal. The discussion proved to be fruitful and promising.

Present at the meeting were Vice President for Construction and Development, Peter Clark, along with attorneys John Ray and Nicole Scott from Safe Harbor. Mayor Phillips was accompanied by Town Councilman Jerry Ashmore, Town Manager Van Willis, and their team.

Safe Harbor came prepared with their agenda, albeit one that omitted the contentious “build-to-rent” proposal, a matter of concern for both town leadership and residents. Mayor Phillips made it clear that this topic needed addressing and should take precedence on the agenda.

It was revealed that Safe Harbor had no contractual obligations with The Beach Company, the firm behind the “build-to-rent” concept. Furthermore, Safe Harbor expressed openness to reconsidering this option, acknowledging it wasn’t a foregone conclusion.

John Ray, representing Safe Harbor, assured the town officials that their concerns would be conveyed to Safe Harbor headquarters for discussion. Mayor Phillips emphasized the importance of finding alternative solutions.

Town officials left the meeting with a positive outlook. Town Manager Van Willis noted that various topics were discussed, including the permitting process and master planning efforts. Safe Harbor indicated progress in obtaining permits for dock and pier construction, which they anticipated would commence within the next few months.

Of paramount importance was Safe Harbor’s stance on the Bluff neighborhood. It was evident that they were not firmly committed to the build-to-rent model, considering the significant opposition from the community.

Safe Harbor’s acquisition of the 317-acre Port of Port Royal site over two years ago marked the beginning of an extensive development plan. The Beach Company’s involvement in the residential component, particularly the build-to-rent proposal, sparked significant controversy.

Mayor Phillips, who campaigned against the build-to-rent concept, emphasized the need for decisive action during his mayoral campaign. His election victory underscored the community’s concerns regarding the development plans.

Following an executive session in December 2023, the Town Council authorized a letter to Safe Harbor, expressing a multitude of concerns. Mayor Phillips’ subsequent letter outlined deadlines for responses, aiming to foster a constructive relationship with Safe Harbor.

Although no definitive commitments regarding the Bluff neighborhood were made during the Feb. 1 meeting, Mayor Phillips remarked on Safe Harbor’s desire for a positive partnership with the Town. The overall sentiment following the meeting was one of optimism, with all parties hopeful for further progress and collaboration.

A Retail Haven Taking Shape

The buzz around Beaufort just got louder with the announcement of four new retail tenants signing on at Beaufort Station, a groundbreaking shopping center poised to redefine the region’s retail landscape. Nestled at the bustling crossroads of Robert Smalls Parkway and Parris Island Gateway, Beaufort Station promises to be a game-changer in northern Beaufort County, offering a sprawling 200,000-square-foot complex catering to retail, dining, and grocery needs.

Zach Means, Senior Vice President of Divaris Real Estate Inc., is enthusiastic about Beaufort Station’s potential. Describing it as a pivotal addition to the region, Means anticipates it becoming not just the largest shopping center between Savannah and Charleston but possibly the largest overall. Its strategic location at one of the busiest intersections in one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing counties, coupled with proximity to major military installations like Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island and Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, underscores its significance as a commercial hub.

Trey Morgan, President of The Morgan Companies spearheading the development, emphasizes the allure of Beaufort’s growth story for retailers. With investments totaling close to $60 million from both developers and tenants, Beaufort Station stands as a testament to the confidence in the area’s economic trajectory.

Among the anchor tenants already confirmed are familiar names such as Aldi Grocery Stores, PetSmart, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Five Below, Rack Room Shoes, Hobby Lobby, Ross Dress for Less, Ulta Beauty, and Old Navy. However, the excitement doesn’t end there. Mattress Firm, America’s Best Contacts and Eyeglasses, Le Nails, and Parker’s Kitchen are among the latest additions to the tenant roster, offering a diverse mix of offerings to cater to varied consumer needs.

While the retail lineup is impressive, negotiations are underway to bring four major restaurants to Beaufort Station, adding a culinary dimension to the shopping experience. Means remains tight-lipped about the names until final agreements are secured, hinting at a blend of national chains and franchised eateries.

Construction activity has been steadily progressing at the 31-acre site, signaling the imminent transformation of the landscape. With building permits issued by the City of Beaufort for shell structures, Morgan anticipates visible progress with structures beginning to emerge between April and June. The projected completion timeline, slated for the second quarter of 2024, promises a vibrant retail destination ready to serve the community’s needs.

Beaufort Station isn’t just another shopping center; it’s a testament to Beaufort’s evolution as a commercial hotspot, offering residents and visitors alike a comprehensive retail experience set against the backdrop of a thriving community. Stay tuned as Beaufort Station takes shape, promising an exciting addition to Beaufort’s dynamic retail scene.

Supporting Growing Community Needs in Port Royal

Exciting developments are taking shape on Ribaut Road at Casablanca Circle in Port Royal, where a new $1.2 million building is currently under construction. Spanning 4,500 square feet, this state-of-the-art facility is set to significantly enhance the capabilities of a longstanding Lowcountry Good Samaritan group, catering to an increasing number of residents in need of essential resources such as food, clothing, and financial assistance.

Lori Opozda, the executive director of HELP of Beaufort, emphasizes the critical role of their organization in providing aid, especially in the face of economic challenges affecting even those who are employed. HELP of Beaufort has been a pillar of support for the community for over half a century, offering vital assistance to hundreds of working families, children, and seniors.

Recognizing the rising demand for their services, HELP of Beaufort is constructing its first permanent food pantry at 1600 Ribaut Road. In addition to the pantry, the expansive facility will feature a 2,200-square-foot produce garden, a walk-in freezer for cold storage, and a private office space for client intake. Plans also include offering cooking and gardening classes to empower individuals and families.

As construction progresses, HELP of Beaufort continues to operate a small pantry at 502 Charles Street in Beaufort, behind the Grace Chapel AME Church. The Beaufort and Port Royal communities have rallied behind the project, contributing over $1 million in donations, labor, and materials. However, additional funding of $150,000 is needed to complete the project, with recent efforts including a $50,000 anonymous donation contingent upon matching funds from other sources.

Opozda’s proactive approach in seeking support from local businesses has been instrumental in garnering assistance for the project, ensuring that HELP of Beaufort will own the building outright, free from debt. This milestone represents the culmination of over five decades of dedicated service to the community.

With the new facility slated for completion by early summer, HELP of Beaufort is poised to continue its mission of providing vital assistance to those in need, further strengthening its longstanding commitment to supporting the well-being of the Lowcountry community. To learn more about this transformative project and how to contribute, visit helpofbeaufort.org.