NEWS RELEASE
February 2, 2016
Release Number: 4004
MEDIA CONTACT
Shawn R. Smetana, Public Information Officer
Phone: (843) 958-4007/Fax: (843) 958-4004
Email: ssmetana@charlestoncounty.org
Workshop to Update the Charleston County Historical and Architectural Survey
Citizens will provide input on the Charleston County Historical and Architectural Survey
Charleston County is asking citizens for input to help identify potential properties for inclusion on the Historical and Architectural Survey. Citizens are invited to attend a public workshop on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers, located at 4045 Bridge View Dr., North Charleston, SC 29405. Staff will provide an overview of historic preservation efforts at the County and a description of the project. Following the presentation, citizens will have an opportunity to ask questions, share oral histories, and provide information on historical or architectural sites.
In 2015, the Charleston County Zoning and Planning Department was awarded a Federal Historic Preservation Grant from the National Park Service (administered by the South Carolina Department of Archives and History) to fund an update to the Charleston County Historical and Architectural Survey (last conducted in 1992). New South Associates (NSA), Inc., a cultural resources consulting firm, has been hired to complete this project, which includes identifying and surveying properties that have historical or architectural significance. The survey update will only include properties in unincorporated Charleston County that have not previously been surveyed.
Citizens can also provide feedback by visiting the project website or Facebook page. Information gathered through these webpages and the community meeting will influence what sites are inventoried and contribute to the local historic context and report recommendations.
For more information about the survey update and project timeline:
- Online: http://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/zoning-planning/projects-hpc.php.
- Contact project staff at (843) 202-7203 or planning@charlestoncounty.org.
*What is a historic resource survey?
A historic resource survey is the process of systematically identifying historic properties within the boundaries of a specific geographical area, documenting their location and physical characteristics, and evaluating their significance within an appropriate historical context.
*Why are historic resource surveys important to communities?
Information produced through historic resource surveys serves many purposes. The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) uses survey information to identify properties eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. City, county, and regional planners use survey information to develop preservation management plans and in preparing comprehensive community plans. Economic development programs rely on survey information to attract investors to communities and to promote heritage tourism. Survey information provides educators, civic organizations, and interested citizens with a basis for learning about the history of their community and making decisions about the care of historic properties.
*Source: South Carolina State Historic Preservation Office
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For information on Charleston County Government news and services, the public can:
- Visit our website: www.charlestoncounty.org
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