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| As in-person public meetings remain on hold, this week marks the first major new construction project to come forward for virtual review. This Wednesday, the Board of Architectural Review-Large (BAR-L) is set to hear a request for conceptual approval of a proposed 175-unit hotel and accompanying parking garage, situated between Cannon and Spring Streets at the base of the Ashley River Bridge. In 2017, the property was rezoned to a Planned Unit Development allowing for additional height, and the Board of Zoning Appeals subsequently granted approval for an accommodations use. |
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| The proposed Aloft Hotel stands at 11 stories high, including a penthouse level with event space, a restaurant, and rooftop terrace, while the neighboring garage structure contains 5-stories of parking and retail space on the ground floor. |
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| This is an important gateway site for Charleston that demands excellence in architecture and urban design. The Preservation Society has concerns over the project’s corporate architectural direction, value-driven material palette, and uninviting presence. Given the prominence of this site, the PSC will advocate for the highest quality design, materials, and contribution to the public realm. We will ask for denial and encourage you to join us. While we are troubled by such a major project coming forward during this time when public input is subject to unpredictable, technological challenges, it is our goal to ensure that you have the tools you need to tune in and make your voice heard. Using the instructions below, submit your comments to City Staff and/or speak during the meeting. Please let the BAR know that this proposal needs to be denied and help us hold the line in demanding better for this important location. Please contact PSC Advocacy Staff with any questions at advocacy@preservationsociety.org. |
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| The BAR-L meeting will take place on June 10 at 4:30pm. To review the agenda click here, and to review image overviews of the projects click here. To access via phone, dial 1 (312) 626-6799, and when prompted enter meeting ID# 864 0835 9700. To access via zoom, click on the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86408359700 Public Comment Instructions Sign-up to speak during the meeting or submit written comments by completing the form at http://innovate.charleston-sc.gov/comments/ Request to speak or leave a comment via voice mail at 843-724-3765. Be sure to provide your name, address, and telephone number. Mail comments to: Department of Planning, Preservation and Sustainability, 2 George Street, 3rd floor, Charleston, SC 29401 |