Council approves utility easement for Beaufort County's Palmetto Bluff Road project

The Beaufort County Public Facilities & Safety Committee convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss several key projects and updates concerning local infrastructure and facilities. The meeting highlighted ongoing improvements at the detention center and the anticipated completion of the Wesley Phoenix project.

One of the primary topics was the ongoing stucco repair project at the detention center, which is expected to last approximately four months. This project involves extensive work on the exterior, including new stucco and paint for the recreation yards. Officials indicated that the majority of the work would be completed on the outside of the facility, with minimal disruption to operations.

Additionally, the committee discussed the Wesley Phoenix project, which is currently in the design phase. Officials stated that design work would take about 60 to 90 days, followed by a construction period of 9 to 10 months. The anticipated completion date for the project is August 2026, with plans for the community to view the design once construction begins.

The committee also confirmed that the local pool project is on schedule for completion by the end of the month, with operations expected to commence shortly after receiving necessary approvals from the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

In other business, the committee approved a motion to add a second citizen comment period to the agenda, allowing for additional public input. Furthermore, an ordinance was discussed regarding the execution of a permanent utility easement for a portion of Palmetto Bluff Road in Bluffton Township, which is part of a broader sewer conversion project in the area.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to improving public facilities and infrastructure, with several projects progressing on schedule. The committee will continue to monitor these developments and engage with the community as they move forward.