City of Charleston's Forest Acres Drainage project Named Environmental Project of the Year in SC

(Photo Courtesy of City of Charleston)

The City of Charleston has announced that its Forest Acres Phase 2 Drainage Improvement Project has been named South Carolina Project of the Year in the Environment category by the American Public Works Association (APWA).

This prestigious recognition highlights the city’s continued commitment to sustainable infrastructure, neighborhood resilience, and environmental stewardship—especially in the flood-prone communities of West Ashley.

Completed earlier this year, Phase 2 of the Forest Acres project has already begun to significantly reduce flooding and protect homes in the St. Andrews Garden Apartments, West Oak Forest, Washington Park, and North Forest Acres neighborhoods. The improvements were carefully designed to operate without pumps, relying instead on a smart, sustainable gravity-based system.

Project Highlights:

• Reconstructed and upgraded open drainage channels.
• Installation of large box culverts (rectangular pipes).
• New piped drainage systems along Playground Road and Brookwood Circle.
• Improved stormwater conveyance from the Palmilla Apartments and Highway 61 down to the West Ashley Bikeway Improvements from Phase 1 of the Forest Acres Project.
• Flood mitigation for both Forest Acres and the adjacent 5th Avenue drainage basins.

The area had long been impacted by recurring flooding, particularly during heavy or repeated moderate rain events. Prior to the upgrade, the basin was served by an outdated and undersized pump station. Today, with these critical improvements, the system offers greater reliability, reduced risk to property and safety, and long-term environmental resilience.

"This project is a great example of what happens when smart design, strong partnerships, and community support come together,” said Mayor William Cogswell, “We’re proud of the work done in West Ashley—and even more proud that it's already making a real difference for our residents.”

Officials with the City of Charleston extend their thanks to the Stormwater Management Department, Thomas & Hutton, Gulf Stream Construction, and the Forest Acres community for their dedication and partnership on this award-winning effort.

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