The housing crisis impacting the Charleston Metro area remains a top priority for our Chamber. Our efforts have led to the launch of the first Regional Housing Coalition. The need to create diverse housing continues to grow as our region gains 33 new people per day. 

Regional Housing Coalition

In an effort to address the housing needs of the region, the Chamber, with a $200,000 grant from Truist, launched the Regional Housing Coalition. Since August, the Coalition has developed committees that members can join to work towards solutions for the area.

The four coalition committees are:

• Policy Development 
• Funding  
• Technical 
• Public Relations 

The Coalition is happy to announce that Abigail Darlington will serve as chair and Kravonda Forrest-Simmions will serve as Vice Chair for the Public Relations committee. We are still working to identify Chairs and Vice-chairs of three other committees. To join the Coalition, click here. If you are interested in learning more about it and our other housing initiatives, please email me at clogan@charlestonchamber.org.  

North Charleston Housing

North Charleston City Council voted to amend the definition of density. This recommendation was passed allowing for higher-density housing to increase the housing supply in the city. This is a step towards creating more housing stock supply to meet the needs of our region. The city also amended the minimum lot size requirement, which allows for much-needed increases in the housing supply.

City of Charleston Housing

The Accessory Dwelling Unit (AUD) city-wide passed this year. This is a critical step towards creating more housing units to meet the regional demand. To learn more about AUD’s in the City of Charleston click here.  

The city also passed efficiency dwelling units this year. This helps create housing types for all people. These units typically contain one multipurpose room with a kitchen and separate bathroom. To learn more about the City of Charleston’s EDU, click here.  

Charleston County Housing

Charleston County will be working to finalize the Housing our Future plan which should be available early next year. Learn more about the plan and the County’s next steps here.  

This year had some major wins that will help the housing needs in our region. We are excited about the new year and continuing the work to create opportunities that initiate, advocate and empower our region to advance a prosperous business environment.