A Closer Look at the Multi-Million Dollar Drainage Projects Transforming Downtown Charleston
Hidden beneath the charming streets of Charleston lies a bustling world of activity—a $50 to $60 million worth of drainage projects at any given time. The latest groundbreaking initiative, the US-17/Spring-Fishburne Project deep tunnel drainage system, is set to revolutionize downtown Charleston’s flooding relief efforts, particularly in the notorious “Crosstown” area.
The US-17/Spring-Fishburne Project: A Beacon of Hope
Completed earlier this year, Phase 4 of the project acts as a “gravity system,” channeling stormwater downhill into underground tunnels that eventually drain into the Ashley River. According to Matt Fountain, Director of Stormwater Management with the City of Charleston, this system promises significantly improved drainage, potentially preventing flooding in areas that were previously vulnerable.
The star of the show is the pump station, a game-changer that will actively draw water away from the underground tunnels and deposit it into the Ashley River. Though construction won’t wrap up for another two years, the pump station will work tirelessly, even against the tide and hurricanes, offering a robust solution to Charleston’s persistent flooding issues.
Fountain emphasizes that the project, a decade in the making with a $200 million price tag partially funded by grants, has not overlooked the importance of aesthetics. The redesign of the Crosstown includes a revamped surface streetscape, adorned with new plantings and traffic signals.
Integrating the Medical Corridor
In an unexpected turn, the project expanded to include the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and its medical corridor. Initially not part of the plan, the city, in collaboration with MUSC’s executive team, modified the design to accommodate the medical district. The result—the “Medical District Drainage Tunnel Extension at Ehrhardt Street”—cost around $15 million and utilized a $10 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) earmarked for disaster mitigation.
Low Battery Seawall Project and Check Valves
Parallelly, the Low Battery Seawall Project, initiated in 2019, aims to tackle rising sea levels. This nearly $70 million project includes lifting 850 feet of seawall on The Battery by two feet, adding a promenade and pedestrian walkway. Phase 3, which began in April 2022, is anticipated to take 18 months for completion.
The stormwater department’s innovative approach focuses on multifunctionality. The Low Battery project not only addresses flooding but also transforms the area into a picturesque linear park. Additional drainage improvements involve strategically placed check valves, preventing water from flowing back into pipes during high tide and reducing flooding in various parts of the peninsula.
Market Street and Beyond
Looking ahead, the city is already in the design phase of the third stage of a stormwater drainage project for Market Street. This includes constructing a larger surface collection and system to efficiently channel water to deep tunnel collection shafts. As part of this initiative, a streetscape project is being added to enhance the aesthetics of Market Street.
While actively pursuing solutions for stormwater flooding, the city remains vigilant, conducting comprehensive computer models, seeking community input, and securing funding for cost-effective projects. The commitment to leveraging grant funding and engaging the community reflects Charleston’s dedication to becoming a resilient and flood-resistant city.
As Matt Fountain affirms, “We certainly have been very successful in grant applications.” The ongoing efforts of the city signal a proactive approach, ensuring that Charleston not only withstands the challenges of flooding but emerges stronger, more beautiful, and more prepared for the future.
