Hailing a taxi could have a whole new meaning here in Charleston, SC.

Charleston’s Parks and Capital Projects Department applied for a permit from federal regulators to build a new floating dock near historic downtown Charleston. This dock would allow various private water taxi companies to operate in Waterfront Park.

This new dock would allow tourists and passengers to have easy access to the heart of the historic district from various areas around Charleston Harbor.

One particular company, the Charleston Water Taxi, currently loops about 10 times daily between the Charleston Harbor Marina at Patriots Point and nearby hotels in Mount Pleasant and the Charleston Maritime Center, near the South Carolina Aquarium downtown.

Many supporters argue that the new dock would showcase Charleston’s beautiful waterfront while decreasing demands on public transportation. The estimated cost of the proposed dock is about $150,000.

Following their proposed expansion to the new Waterfront Park, Charleston Water Taxi hopes to expand to Daniel Island. From there they have their sights set on Mount Pleasant’s Memorial Waterfront Park as well as a stop in North Charleston. They also plan to launch a more traditional taxi service on a separate boat that will ferry passengers to locations at their request.

We think that whether you’re a local or a tourist, you’ll find a water taxi a delightful and inexpensive adventure. What are your thoughts?

Read original article from the Post and Courier here.

The town of Mt. Pleasant, SC launched a marketing initiative in September that is encouraging residents to take part in their research. Aiming to develop a business plan that will increase the quality of life for residents, town officials want to hear from YOU!

The Web site, IdeasForMP.com, was created to act as a community forum – a place to share thoughts, pictures, video, personal stories and ideas for improving Mt. Pleasant.

As the Web site reads, “We’ve launched a long term, strategic marketing effort to help improve the quality of life for all our residents and businesses and we want to incorporate your input and feedback.”

So if you’re a current Mt. Pleasant resident with some ideas for the town’s future or thinking about moving to the area, check out IdeasForMP.com and get a glimpse of this vibrant, close-knit community.

The 21-foot-tall tree, which features almost 600 Christmas lights and a star on top, will help “create a new tradition,” Mount Pleasant Mayor Billy Swails said.

“Santa will arrive on a bright red fire truck to listen to Christmas requests and distribute candy canes,” he said. “Entertainment will include local performers, and a Toys for Tots drive will be held at 7 p.m. in the Cooper River Room at the Visitor Center. Bring your children and good cheer and help us usher the Christmas season into our wonderful town!”

For details on the “Tree of Lights” ceremony, contact Su McManus-Frost at 884-8517.

Every year the Municipal Association of South Carolina Municipal Association of South Carolina recognizes and encourages innovations and excellence in local governments through its Achievement Awards. The 2009 winners were recently announced.

The town of Mount Pleasant was the 2009 recipient of the Public Service Award.

Mount Pleasant is a rapidly growing and vivacious area, making it a highly desired place to live. Local officials in Mount Pleasant knew that it was nearly impossible for middle-income workers to find a place to live in town.

Many of these workers were commuting from nearby towns – Goose Creek, Summerville or West Ashley. These long commutes were not only tiresome for the drivers themselves, they also created extra congestion on the roadways.

The town council created the Workforce Housing Advisory Committee which in turn generated workforce housing in various areas around Mount Pleasant. These zoned areas provide affordable housing within the town of Mount Pleasant.

Consequently, numerous workers can now live within the city in which they work. This has dramatically cut down on commuting traffic and made the lives of many middle-income workers much less stressful.

Those in opposition, specifically Mt. Pleasant Town Councilman Joe Bustos, fear that this particular area of Shem Creek will become too congested with boats.

Deputy Town Administrator Eric Demora explained a few of the proposed changes. The empty half-acre lot that the town purchased will become a parking lot with public restrooms and benches. Additionally, the creek will remain open with a boardwalk extending out into the water.

The boardwalk will extend 1100 feet down the hummock island and will be filled with educational exhibits that highlight native plants and animals that park visitors may see on their visit. Additionally, there will be an observation tower that will enhance the superb view of the area.

Plans will begin to take place in six months, and construction will begin in one year.

Original article found here

After surviving multiple kamikaze attacks during the war, this ship developed a brut of a reputation. Although the ship is right here in Charleston, you’ll have to wait a few months before you can visit her.

At its new location, the ship will undergo various repairs, which is expected to take about four months. The state of South Carolina recently approved a loan of more than $9 million to help with the repairs.

The move was carefully timed to take advantage of the ocean’s highest tides of the month.

“Probably no ship has ever survived an attack of the intensity that she experienced.”
- Samuel Eliot Morison, Naval Historian

For additional information regarding the USS Laffey and its incredible history, visit the
ship’s personal Web site.

What used to be the old bridge that connected Mt. Pleasant to Sullivan’s Island is now a pet and family-friendly park that’s growing in popularity. On any given day, you’ll find people jogging, playing sports and bicycling through the area. There are plenty of grassy areas perfect for picnics and play dates. You’ll even find people crabbing and fishing off the walking bridges and small piers.

The Charleston area is filled with beautiful parks and breathtaking scenery, but this park definitely tops the list. It’s one of the best spots to watch the sunset, have a photo shoot, spend a lazy Saturday and let the kids roam.

Look at this map for directions on how to get to the Pitt Street Bridge.

The grand opening of the new Waterfront Park was held on July 4th weekend, but the great features of the park can be enjoyed year-round. This park, as the name suggests, is right on the Cooper River. The Ravenel Bridge runs over part of the park, which offers beautiful shade and a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

The Visitor’s Center is now open to the public from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. year round. Of course, a plethora of information on area attractions, restaurants, shopping and recreation can be found—perfect for those wanting to acquaint themselves with the area.

A Mt. Pleasant tradition, sweetgrass basket weaving, can be seen in the Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Pavilion. On any given day, there will be multiple basket booths set up where you can watch the weaving happen, buy handmade baskets and learn about the unique culture. The Pavillion has an indoor section as well with historical facts about African American locals who’ve helped to create the distinctive Sweetgrass Basket Culture.

The longest fishing pier in the state can also be found here—stretching over 1,250 feet over the Cooper River. There’s a bait shop right before the pier that sells fishing licenses, poles and bait, which makes fresh fish for dinner even easier. You can also launch your kayak from this pier. Be sure to leave your pets at home if fishing is on your agenda– there are no pets allowed on the pier. The rest of the area is pet-friendly though.

The bait shop doubles as a snack and gift shop. Don’t worry about packing a picnic when you visit; this shop sells delicious salads, sandwiches and pastries for a great price. The gift shop sells traditional South Carolina souvenirs as well as beautiful art, crafts and unique keepsakes from local vendors.

In the middle of the park, you’ll find the War Memorial complete with a beautiful Lady Liberty statue, tribute bricks and a meaningful fountain. This is a great spot to capture the essence of true American heroes who’ve paid the ultimate price.

A very popular children’s playground is located right under the Ravenel Bridge, which keeps the area shaded and provides great entertainment for kids curious about cars and bridges. There are several swing sets and jungle gyms, as well as some more unique play features.

If you have a party or event coming up, there are two spaces that can be rented. The Cooper River Room is a 150 seated capacity, and the Sweetgrass Pavilion is smaller at just 40 seated capacity. These spaces are perfect for family reunions, company meetings, wedding receptions or rehearsals, or whatever else you can think of. The cost to rent these spaces vary based on the season, but can be found here.

“A location as historic and fascinating as the Town of Mount Pleasant deserves a Visitors Center that reflects its storied past and bright future,” said Mayor Pro Tem, Kruger Smith.. “Generations of visitors will visit this spot and know that they have found themselves in a unique and special place.”

To get to the Mt. Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park, take US 17 to the Wingo Way Exit. Continue onto Wingo Way under West Coleman Blvd. The park can also be accessed from Patriots Point Road by turning right onto Harry Hallman Blvd., which joins up with Wingo Way. Parking is currently free, but there are meters in place, so be prepared either way.