PLACEMAKING IN CHARLESTON: A PEDESTRIANIZATION STUDY OF KING STREET, CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
Loading...
Date
Authors
Heath, Alexandra
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
King Street has served as Charleston’s central commercial hub for hundreds of years, and has consequently evolved to match societal needs, technological advancements, and cultural shifts. This thoroughfare has transitioned from a pedestrian shopping corridor into an automobile-congested public space. The site’s business typologies, topography, and history present opportunities for the retrofitting of King Street to facilitate walkability, sustainability, and economic vitality. By closing the site to automobile traffic, residents and tourists alike would experience an engaging and safe public space that is unique to the Charleston Metropolitan Region. The increase in revenue experienced by adjacent businesses, vibrant street activity, increased workforce and affordable housing density, and the stormwater containment capabilities of the site would be a multi-faceted asset to the city as it evolves to manage future economic, social, and environmental challenges.