Dorchester County proclaims Parks & Recreation Month and moves to expand Ashley River Park with donated land

Dorchester County Council on June 16 adopted Proclamation 25-11 declaring July 2025 National Parks and Recreation Month and discussed several park projects and a proposed expansion of Ashley River Park.

At the start of the meeting, Parks presenter Mr. Byers read the proclamation recognizing the role parks play in health, recreation and local tourism. Council voted to adopt the proclamation (6 in favor, 1 absent).

Council heard updates on multiple park and recreation projects: Pine Trace Park is under construction with play components about 50% complete and site power live; fixtures, furnishings and equipment are expected in the coming weeks. Oakbrook Sports Complex held a pre-construction meeting and is coordinating scope and schedule with the YMCA. Staff noted the county will soon announce a groundbreaking or ribbon-cutting for a large property described in the meeting as more than 1,600 acres off Old Beach Hill Road; the county indicated the site is in active coordination with the South Carolina Forestry Commission and the Open Land Trust.

During discussion of the capital improvement plan, council and staff also raised the prospect of including a public shooting range and law-enforcement training range on the large property; staff said the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and other partners previously showed interest and that some federal programs offered a 90/10 grant match for range construction. The sheriff nd other county partners would be involved if the project proceeds.

Late in the meeting, after executive session, the council authorized the county administrator to execute documents to accept two parcels of land from Lennar/Coastal Carolina totaling approximately 135 acres along the Ashley River (motion recorded as 6 in favor, 1 absent). Council members described the donation as a potential major expansion of Ashley River Park and a community asset. Councilmember Myers called the potential addition "a huge win for this community." The transfer authorization directs staff to complete required documentation and conveyances.

Why it matters: the county is progressing multiple recreation projects and is preparing to add a large tract to the county park system, which could expand public access along the Ashley River and provide room for new amenities.

Ending: With the proclamation, project updates and authorization to accept donated land, Dorchester County signaled a renewed emphasis on parks, open space and recreation infrastructure. Staff said more details on groundbreaking dates and project timelines will be announced as agreements and permits are finalized.