Local Update
James Island Drainage Project Heads Toward Construction
The City of Charleston planned a $4.5 million vote in September 2026 on the last phase of the Central Park Drainage Basin work on James Island.
Posted October 9, 2026. Sources last checked October 9, 2026.
What Was Reported
Live 5 News reported on September 21, 2026 on a city contract for James Island drainage. These are the facts it gives.
- The contract: The City of Charleston was set to consider a $4.5 million contract. It went to a city committee first, then Ways and Means, then full City Council on Tuesday, September 22.
- The area: The basin covers about 500 acres. This is the first major drainage project on its eastern side. The story names Laurel Park, Marlborough, the New Central Park Cluster, and the EME Apartments as areas that should benefit.
- The work: New storm drain pipes, culverts, and valves, larger pipes under several roads, and more rainwater storage during high tides. Crews will also do erosion control.
- Tide flooding: The work is meant to cut off high-tide flooding at Riley Road.
- Closures: Riley Road, Central Park Road, and the EME Apartments driveway will close for short periods. Crews will also work in and around some residents' backyards.
- Timing: Crews were expected to start about a month after approval. The work is expected to finish by the end of 2027.
We could not find a report that confirms the final council vote. Check the city council agenda and minutes for the result.
What the City Says About Results
Live 5 News reported on August 27, 2026 that a $1.5 million Resilient Infrastructure and Adaptation grant helps pay for the project. The project was then listed at about $5 million.
The city stormwater director, Matthew Fountain, said the improvements should reduce flooding but not end it. He said, "We can generally never eliminate any flooding."
The city project page says flooding in the basin is significant, driven by more development and limited drainage and outfall systems. It does not list a current phase or dates.
What Drainage Work Nearby Can Mean for a Building
Big drainage projects are good news for flood-prone streets. They do not change what happens right at your walls. Water from your roof and yard still has to move away from the building.
Tidal areas on James Island can flood on clear days at high tide. Salt water and standing water can reach crawl spaces and low slabs. Every lot is different, and we would need to see the building to say more.
What to Check Near a Drainage Project
These are simple checks, not an inspection.
- Take dated photos now: Photograph the yard, the foundation walls, and any cracks before work starts. Put a ruler next to each crack.
- Watch the water path: After rain, see where water runs and where it stands. Note any new pooling against the building.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear: Send roof water away from the foundation.
- Look under the building: If you have a crawl space and can reach it safely, check for standing water, wet insulation, or a musty smell.
- Ask about backyard work: If crews need to enter your yard, the city project contact is Grant Eversmann, PE, at eversmanng@charleston-sc.gov, listed on the city page. The Citizen Services Desk is 843.724.7311.
If you see lasting damp or new cracks, ask a licensed contractor or a structural engineer to look at it.
Learn more about drainage and water control in Charleston, SC and foundation repair in James Island. You can also request a free estimate in Charleston, SC. The work is performed by licensed and insured contractors.
This post is general information. It is not an inspection, a diagnosis, or engineering advice.
James Island Drainage Questions
What is the Central Park Drainage Basin on James Island?
It is a basin of about 500 acres that Live 5 News says has been a focus of city and county work for nearly a decade. The city page places it between Central Park Road, Maybank Highway, Folly Road, and Woodland Shores.
Did Charleston City Council approve the $4.5 million contract?
Live 5 News reported on September 21, 2026 that the contract was set for council approval the next day. We did not find a report that confirms the vote, so check the city council agenda and minutes.
Will this project stop all flooding?
The city stormwater director told Live 5 News in August that the city can generally never eliminate any flooding. The work is meant to cut off high-tide flooding and improve drainage, not to end all flooding.
Sources
All sources were opened and checked on October 9, 2026.
- Live 5 News, "Charleston set to approve $4.5M drainage work, road closures on James Island," September 21, 2026.
- Live 5 News, "Residents have been waiting years," August 27, 2026.
- City of Charleston, Central Park Drainage Basin Improvements: project description and contacts (page is not dated).
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