Save James Island fights for the preservation and protection of their James Island, SC home, particularly in the face of massive development. The nonprofit was founded to protect the island’s character, history, wildlife, and quality of life in an uncommonly beautiful place that provides residents with quick access to downtown Charleston and the beach. However, the island has been facing increased flooding and waste-water system overflows due to development. The city and county began a $400,000 drainage study in the same area, yet the city approved two developments before that study was completed. According to Risk Factor, James Island faces a severe risk of flooding over the next 30 years. That’s why Save James Island is committed to protecting its green spaces, trees, waterways, and marshes, as well as advocating for appropriate zoning, infrastructure improvements, stormwater management, and building design standards tailored to their community.
What began as a small Facebook group concerned with massive overdevelopment, Save James Island now boasts over 4,500 residents united in taking action against threats to their unique Low Country island. Partnering with the Thriving Earth Exchange and the South Carolina Coastal Conservation League, they commissioned a report by stormwater expert, Dr. Steve Emerman. His 2020 report concluded that the stormwater infrastructure in the area was in poor condition and officials needed to fix it before considering any new development. Save James Island works to hold elected officials and agencies accountable, urging them to look at the science and find solutions. Currently, drainage improvement projects are happening in the Central Park Basin, with more slated to be completed by 2026. Yet concurrently, more homes are going up. Group member Frances Henty, a realtor and resident, states it plainly, “It doesn’t make sense to add more development to such a fragile water table, it just doesn’t make sense.”
Coverage of flooding in Charleston in The Post and Courier.