The City of Beaufort is gearing up for a significant ribbon-cutting ceremony, with plans to celebrate the completion of Southside Park's first phase. City officials confirmed that the event is tentatively scheduled for the week following the upcoming walkthrough inspection, which aims to finalize any remaining tasks on the punch list. The excitement is palpable, especially with a Hollywood TV star expected to attend, although their exact availability remains uncertain.

In addition to the park, discussions highlighted the near completion of the basketball court, with hopes to combine the celebrations for both projects. City leaders emphasized the importance of recognizing the county's support for the basketball court during the ceremony, showcasing a collaborative effort in community development.

The meeting also touched on the First South Carolina Volunteer Park, where a master planning design is underway. City staff are preparing to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for contractors, aiming to kick off the project early next year. Stakeholders have been actively involved, with a key meeting scheduled for January 16 to solidify plans.

Other projects discussed included the long-awaited improvements to the Carnegie Library, where a suitable contractor has finally been secured after multiple bidding attempts. The project is set to commence with roof repairs, followed by interior renovations.

Additionally, the city is making strides in addressing the marina fuel tank replacement and downtown drainage projects. A recent grant increase for the Charles Craven Street project has boosted funding from $7 million to $11 million, reflecting rising costs in infrastructure projects statewide.

As Beaufort continues to enhance its community spaces, these developments signal a commitment to improving local amenities and fostering collaboration among city and county officials. The upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremony is poised to be a highlight, celebrating both the park and the basketball court, while setting the stage for future projects that aim to enrich the lives of residents.