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Clemson Architecture Students, LS3P Move Edisto Recreation Center Closer to Reality

Clemson Architecture Students, LS3P Move Edisto Recreation Center Closer to Reality

For years, it’s been the dream of a small but dedicated group of Edisto volunteers to create a recreation area where young people — and adults — who live here could enjoy basketball courts, walking trails, softball fields, an indoor track, gym, and pool.

For the love of youth and sports, the group created Edisto Island Youth Recreation (EIYR), an all-volunteer organization. In 2020, with help from Tom Austin of Edisto’s Open Land Trust, the group succeeded in purchasing 145 acres on Clark Road with a grant from the Charleston County Green Belt Program.

EIYR got a real boost this spring when ten energetic and talented Clemson Architecture students adopted the organization as their design project. With the guidance of Professor Raymond Huff, the third-year students created three distinct concepts for the 145-acre complex off Clark Road. Their work began with workshops during which they gathered input from the community.

They toured the island and the property, researched the history and culture of Edisto and the sea islands, and presented the volunteer group with possible scenarios, gathering their comments and criticisms before creating their final renderings and models of a gym, ball fields, basketball court, hiking trails, a pool, and a library. Most importantly, they explained how they envisioned the complex being used by both the island and beach communities of Edisto.

The project was then turned over to architects Brian Wurst and Thomas Jasper of the Charleston architectural firm LS3P. After meetings with EIYR volunteers, the two presented a site plan and a gym concept, which are necessary for permits to be granted. The work of LS3P architects is part of the firm’s commitment to yearly in-kind services to the community and Charleston County citizens.

Clemson Professor Raymond Huff explained the design process at a community workshop.

The Charleston County Parks & Recreation Commission (CCPRC) has pledged considerable resources to ensure the first phase of the recreation complex will be completed once the permits are in place. CCPRC Director of Planning & Development Patty Newshultz will oversee the work once all permits are secured and the site plan is finalized.

Efforts are ongoing to secure state funding, and meetings have been held with SC Senator Chip Campsen and Al Jenkins of Sen. Scott’s office.

Meanwhile, young people from Edisto Island and the surrounding communities continue to participate in the EIYR sports programs. Through the generosity of area churches, organizations, and individuals, EIYR conducts programs in gymnastics, softball, baseball, track, basketball, and cheerleading. There is never any charge to the young people.

If you would like to learn more about Edisto Island Youth Recreation, please call: