Residents critique Johns Island roundabout plans during public hearing

The Charleston County Council convened on June 24, 2025, to address several pressing issues concerning local infrastructure and community safety. The meeting featured public comments regarding a proposed roundabout on Chisholm Road, which has raised significant concerns among residents.

Betty Craig, a long-time resident of Johns Island, expressed her apprehensions about the roundabout's design, highlighting potential dangers for drivers navigating the complex intersection. She emphasized that the current layout could lead to accidents, particularly with the tight maneuvering space for vehicles. Craig urged the council to reconsider the design, suggesting that only right turns be allowed from the secondary road leading to the boat landing to enhance safety.

John Zlogar, representing Rational Roads for Johns Island, acknowledged the necessity of the project while opposing the removal of trees. He praised the county staff for their efforts and noted that the project had garnered minimal opposition from the community. Zlogar advocated for the hiring of a landscape architect to ensure that any new tree plantings are well-planned and sustainable. He also called for improvements to Maybank Highway, suggesting that funds from a recent settlement could be allocated to enhance traffic flow on Johns Island.

The council concluded the public hearing segment of the meeting and moved to discuss further actions, including contacting the city of Charleston regarding ongoing discussions from an executive session. The meeting underscored the community's commitment to improving local infrastructure while balancing environmental concerns. The council's next steps will likely involve further deliberation on the proposed projects and community feedback.