Alljoy sidewalk gets state approval, receives project bids

Beaufort County has been granted SCDOT approval for the proposed sidewalk in the Alljoy neighborhood, according to an update from the County’s Alljoy liaison Matt Krause.

The approval, which was followed by a bid submission period that closed on June 6th, clears the way for the eventual construction of the path, which has been the subject of debate for several years between County officials and Alljoy neighborhood advocates.

Speaking about the project approval at the June 9th Beaufort County Council meeting, Councilman Mark Lawson expressed gratitude to those responsible and estimated the project would be completed in about six months.

Disagreements over the project have included the environmental impact of the planned concrete paving, especially with regard to potential runoff into the May River, as well as aesthetics and conflicts between development opportunities and resident rights.

One of the most discussed issues has been that of pervious versus impervious surfaces in the boat landing area and on the proposed sidewalk. Advocates have championed the use of natural materials for both neighborhood aesthetics and environmental stewardship, saying that pervious materials allowing water and pollutants to flow through would alleviate flooding and river pollution. However, the project is being done under the authority of the SCDOT whose construction standard is to use concrete for sidewalks.

In response to an email inquiry about the environmental impact of the sidewalk project, officials at the Department of Environmental Services explained that they studied the proposal and the area before issuing the permit in December of 2023 and had determined the project complied with environmental regulations and would not degrade the local environment. They also stated that they may perform compliance inspections.

After having attended a County sponsored Alljoy issue meeting on June 5th, Laura Wilson of Preserve and Protect Alljoy said that, while they remain concerned and are disappointed by the process and the outcome, they do not have plans to contest the sidewalk issue any further but will continue to advocate for the concerns of Alljoy residents.

Channing Heiss is a freelance writer and a member of the Beaufort County disAbilities Coalition.