Author: Charleston Daily

By Mark A Leon

Owning a small business in Charleston, South Carolina, can feel like trying to keep pace with a city that is both booming and burdened. While the historic charm and steady tourism create opportunity, they also introduce a unique set of challenges that many entrepreneurs struggle to overcome.

Rising Rents and Real Estate Pressure

One of the most significant pain points is the cost of rent—especially in downtown Charleston. Retail and restaurant spaces on the peninsula command some of the highest rates in the state, driven by tourism demand and limited supply. 

At the same time, property owners often favor short-term vacation rentals or high-end tenants that cater to visitors, which reduces availability for locally owned businesses. This shift has contributed to steep rent increases and, in many cases, the displacement of long-standing neighborhood shops. 

Regulations and Compliance Costs

Charleston’s regulatory environment is another hurdle. From strict zoning laws to evolving short-term rental rules, business owners must constantly adapt to new policies. For example, short-term rental operators face annual permit renewals and stricter enforcement measures, reflecting a broader trend of increasing oversight. 

Restaurants and bars face additional pressure from state-mandated liquor liability insurance, with premiums rising dramatically in recent years—sometimes high enough to prevent new businesses from opening altogether. 

Construction, Infrastructure, and Congestion

Ongoing construction and infrastructure strain are daily realities in Charleston. The city’s narrow, historic streets were never designed for modern traffic volumes, and the influx of visitors only compounds the issue. Roadwork, detours, and limited parking can discourage customers and complicate deliveries. 

For business owners, this translates into lost foot traffic, frustrated customers, and logistical headaches that directly impact revenue.

Tourism-Driven Price Inflation

Charleston’s economy is heavily tied to tourism, which creates a double-edged sword. While visitors bring spending power, they also drive up prices across the board. Restaurants, retail goods, and services often reflect tourist-level pricing, making it harder for locals to remain consistent customers. 

Additionally, the demand for hotels and luxury experiences pushes commercial development toward high-end concepts, leaving fewer affordable options for small, independent operators. 

Labor and Cost-of-Living Challenges

As housing costs rise, many workers can no longer afford to live near downtown. This forces employees to commute longer distances, increasing turnover and pushing wages higher. Businesses must then balance rising payroll costs with already thin margins—especially in hospitality. 

The Bottom Line

Charleston remains an attractive place to start a business, but success requires navigating a complex landscape of high rents, strict regulations, infrastructure challenges, and tourism-driven inflation. For many owners, the biggest challenge isn’t attracting customers—it’s sustaining a business in a city where the cost of operating continues to climb faster than the ability to keep up.

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By Mark A Leon

The Credit One Charleston Open, held March 28–April 5, 2026, in Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the premier events on the women’s tennis calendar. Here are five reasons why you should experience it in person.

1. Elite Player Field

The 2026 tournament features 10 of the world’s Top 25 players, including stars like Jessica Pegula, Amanda Anisimova, and Madison Keys. This level of talent guarantees high-quality, competitive matches throughout the week. 

2. Unique Green Clay Surface

Unlike most tournaments, Charleston is played on green clay—the only event of its kind in North America. This surface creates longer rallies and strategic play, offering a refreshing change from hard courts. 

3. Historic Prestige

As the oldest professional all-women’s tennis tournament in the United States, the event has crowned legends like Chris Evert and Serena Williams. Attending means being part of a rich tennis tradition dating back to 1973. 

4. Incredible Fan Experience

Beyond tennis, the event offers food, shopping, and entertainment in a lively outdoor setting at Credit One Stadium. It’s a full-day experience that blends world-class sport with Charleston’s signature charm. 

5. Accessible Tickets & Atmosphere

With a variety of ticket options—from single sessions to premium seating—it’s easy to find a package that fits your budget. You can explore ticket options here:

👉 Buy Charleston Open Tickets

Whether you’re a die-hard tennis fan or just looking for a memorable spring event, the Credit One Charleston Open delivers world-class competition, history, and an unbeatable atmosphere.

Related: CREDIT ONE CHARLESTON OPEN COMMITS TO EQUAL PRIZE MONEY; RECORD $2.5M AWARDED

Photo Credit: Charleston Open and Charleston Daily

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The City of Charleston today celebrated the completion of Bridgepoint Ecological Park and Playground with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the Shadowmoss neighborhood of West Ashley. The new green space and playground will also help reduce flooding in the surrounding community.

The Bridgepoint project uses nature-based solutions to help reduce both tidal and inland flooding in the Shadowmoss neighborhood. The park was created on the former site of the flood-prone Bridgepointe Townhomes, which were purchased and demolished after repeated flooding events. The area has been transformed into an ecological park designed to collect and store stormwater during heavy rain events and release it slowly over time.

Located within the Church Creek drainage basin, the project demonstrates how natural landscapes can play an important role in managing water and improving resilience in West Ashley. The park includes native vegetation, restored natural areas, walking trails, and a playground for neighborhood families. The Church Creek basin has experienced repeated flooding challenges over the years, and projects like Bridgepoint are designed to help reduce flood risk while improving neighborhood green space.

“Bridgepoint Ecological Park is a great example of how Charleston is marrying form and function,” said Mayor Cogswell. “This project helps reduce flooding while also creating a beautiful new amenity for West Ashley residents and families.”

Bridgepoint Ecological Park is part of the City of Charleston’s ongoing efforts to address flooding through innovative infrastructure and nature-based solutions that improve resilience while enhancing public spaces.

The City would like to thank the staff and partners who helped make this project possible, including the City’s Stormwater Management and Parks Departments, as well as Biohabitats, Lowcountry Siteworks, Surculus, Weston & Sampson, Wildlands, The Nature Conservancy, and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

Source and Photos: City of Charleston, SC

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The City of Charleston Recreation Department is excited to announce the launch of its new mobile app, now available for download. The app provides residents and visitors with a convenient way to access recreation services directly from their smartphones. This is part of an ongoing effort by Mayor Cogswell to modernize outdated city practices. 

Users can download the app by searching “City of Charleston Recreation” in their device’s app store or by following this link to open the app in Google Play or the App Store. 

The mobile app allows users to easily manage their recreation activities and accounts with several helpful features, including: 

• Registering for recreation programs, youth and adult athletics, and camps
• Making tee times for a round of golf
• Scanning membership barcodes to access pools and tennis centers
• Reserving facilities and athletic fields
• Managing account information and paying balances
• Receiving time-sensitive notifications, community event updates, and program registration reminders

The new app is designed to make it easier than ever for the community to stay connected with City of Charleston Recreation programs and facilities. 

Residents are encouraged to download the app and explore its features. To learn more, watch a short overview video demonstrating how to use the app.  

Additional resources and how-to videos are also available on the Recreation Mobile App webpage to help users get started.

Source: City of Charleston, SC

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The Citadel Bulldog Challenge may be one of the hardest and most rewarding events you can participate in this spring in Charleston, South Carolina.

What is the Bulldog Challenge and why should you participate?

• 10K (6.2 Miles)
• 10 stations – Obstacle Course, Warpath Mile, Amphibious Landing, Emerald Fire and Maneuver, Operation CASEVAC, Mt. Suribachi Ascent, The Devil Dog Trench, Combat Conditioning Ladder, Steel Reaper, Warrior’s Forge (MCMAP Station) and Kim’s Combat Recall
• Team competition approach
• 17th Annual Event – A true Lowcountry tradition

Event Details

• What: The Citadel Bulldog Challenge
• Where: The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina – 171 Moultrie Street, Charleston, SC 29409
• Where: Saturday, April 25, 2026 – 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Click HERE for tickets
• Official Event Website

On April 25, 2025, the Bulldog Challenge returns to The Citadel — and this isn’t your typical road race. This is 6.2 miles of grit, teamwork, and controlled chaos across campus and through Charleston.

Grab a team of 2 or 4 and move as a unit through ten demanding stations designed to test endurance, strength, and mental toughness. You’ll hit the obstacle course, climb stadium stairs, carry weight, flip tires, execute buddy carries, complete memory challenges under stress, and push through a final assault to the parade deck finish. You start together. You finish together.

No military experience is required. Civilians, service members, ROTC, students, weekend warriors — all are welcome. If you register solo, we’ll place you on a 4-person team. No one gets left behind.

Wear whatever you want — costumes and creative attire are encouraged, and there’s a prize for the most spirited team. Awards will be presented to top Civilian, Military, and ROTC teams in both 2-person and 4-person categories, along with participation prizes for all finishers.

Charleston, SC- March 11, 2026 — Charleston City Council voted Tuesday evening to defer consideration of potential regulations related to electric bicycles, or e-bikes, in order to allow for additional review, public input, and coordination with law enforcement. 

During the discussion, Traffic and Transportation Committee Chair Mike Seekings, who represents District 8, including downtown and Daniel Island, said the City must address e-bikes through its transportation ordinances, but noted that the current draft needs more work and refinement before moving forward. Seekings said the City first needs to clearly define what qualifies as an e-bike, distinguish lower speed pedal assist bicycles from higher powered motorized devices, and ensure any future regulations can be enforced effectively.  

Councilmember Boyd Gregg, who represents District 1, including Daniel Island, also emphasized the urgency of the issue, particularly in areas where e-bike and moped activity has become more visible and raised safety concerns. Gregg called attention to the need for additional enforcement using existing laws, especially where riders may already fall under moped regulations. 

To continue the discussion, City Council will hold a special meeting of the Traffic and Transportation Committee on March 24 focused exclusively on e-bike issues. The meeting will include public comment and participation from Charleston Police Chief Chito Walker and his team. 

Topics expected to be discussed include: 

• Establishing a clear definition of what constitutes an e-bike under city regulations 
• Distinguishing lower speed pedal assist bicycles from higher powered motorized devices such as mopeds 
• Determining where different types of e-bikes may operate, including multi-use paths and other shared pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure 
• Developing enforcement protocols and potential penalties 
• Exploring education efforts in coordination with law enforcement and local schools 

Council members noted that the issue has become particularly visible on Daniel Island, where the rapid growth of e-bike use among young riders has raised concerns about safety on both roadways and multi-use paths. 

Council also discussed the challenges created by Charleston’s varied infrastructure. Multi-use paths across the city differ significantly in width and design, and officials said those differences will need to be considered as the City evaluates where and how e-bikes can safely operate. 

Following the March 24 committee meeting, council members expect to bring back a revised proposal for consideration by the full City Council. 

For more information about upcoming meetings, visit charleston-sc.gov. 

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$42.5 million investment will create 85 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Cheney Brothers, a leading broadline food distributor, today announced it is expanding its Florence County operations with an additional $42.5 million investment that will create 85 new jobs.

Headquartered in Florida, Cheney Brothers processes and distributes a variety of food products across the United States, including meat and seafood, dairy, frozen food, and other dry groceries. The company also supplies food service equipment and offers kitchen and bar design services to its customers.

Cheney Brothers will expand its South Carolina distribution facility, located at 2491 Florence Harllee Blvd. in Florence, which first broke ground in 2023.

Operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the Cheney Brothers team should visit the company’s careers page.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $200,000 Set-Aside grant to Florence County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.

QUOTES

“We have been greatly impressed by the business-friendly attitude of the state of South Carolina. We look forward to a long and very bright future, distributing product across the state.”  -Cheney Brothers CEO Byron Russell

“By adding 85 new jobs in Florence County, Cheney Brothers is deepening its investment in South Carolina and strengthening the local economy. This expansion will create new opportunities for hardworking South Carolinians and further reinforce our reputation as a place where businesses can succeed.” -Gov. Henry McMaster 

“With its investment of $42.5 million, Cheney Brothers’ expansion reflects the business-friendly environment here in the Palmetto State. Industrial growth in our key sectors supports South Carolina’s continued economic success.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“When a company like Cheney Brothers doubles down on Florence, it’s a win for everyone. Cheney Brothers’ decision to grow here brings stable, high-quality career opportunities that will benefit Florence County residents for generations to come.” -Florence County Council Chairman Jerry Yarborough

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Cheney Brothers is expanding its operations in Florence County.
• The company’s $42.5 million expansion will create 85 additional new jobs.
• Cheney Brothers is a broadline food distributor.
• The company is located at 2491 Florence Harllee Blvd. in Florence, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Cheney Brothers team should visit the company’s careers page.

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Johns Island continues to be one of the fastest growing areas in the Charleston region. Buyers are drawn to its sprawling oak trees, expansive marsh views, and the relaxing pace of coastal living. While many shoppers focus on well known master planned communities, there are smaller pockets across the island that offer better value, more privacy, and a stronger connection to the natural Lowcountry landscape. A knowledgeable Real Estate Agent in Johns Island SC, like Heather Gregory, can help buyers discover these quiet gems that rarely show up on typical search results.

Below is a complete guide to the hidden neighborhoods that deserve more attention during your home search.

Cedar Springs: Lowcountry Character With Room To Breathe

Cedar Springs is a favorite for buyers who want a peaceful, established neighborhood with larger lots and natural buffers. The community is lined with mature oak trees and feels tucked away even though it is only minutes from Maybank Highway. Homes vary in style, giving the area a custom, timeless feel rather than a cookie cutter look.

Why buyers love Cedar Springs:

• Spacious lots with privacy
• Mature landscaping and tree canopy
• Easy access to restaurants, coffee shops, and local markets
• Strong long term property value due to limited inventory

Cedar Springs offers the classic Johns Island lifestyle that many newcomers imagine. It is ideal for buyers who want space, quiet, and a neighborhood that feels connected to nature.

Stonoview: Waterfront Living at an Attainable Price

Stonoview sits directly along the Stono River and offers a highly desirable waterfront lifestyle without the premium prices of Kiawah or Seabrook. The community feels active and outdoorsy, making it a great match for buyers who want access to the water, scenic trails, and a social neighborhood environment.

• Notable features in Stonoview:
• Deep water community dock
• Kayak and paddle board storage
• Walking and biking trails
• Riverside sunset views
• Resort style pool and pavilion

Homes in Stonoview hold their value well because neighborhoods with deep water access and riverfront amenities are limited on Johns Island. A local expert like Heather Gregory can point out which homes have the strongest long term position within the neighborhood.

Rushland Landing: Private, Upscale, and Immersed in Nature

Rushland Landing is one of the most visually stunning pockets on Johns Island. Surrounded by preserved wetlands and wildlife habitats, the neighborhood was designed to create harmony with the natural landscape. Homes tend to be elevated, custom built, and thoughtfully planned to take advantage of marsh and river views.

What makes Rushland Landing special:

• Protected natural surroundings and scenic marsh vistas
• Custom architecture rather than mass produced layouts
• Quiet streets and a private, upscale feel
• Close to James Island and downtown Charleston while still feeling secluded

Rushland Landing is a strong match for buyers relocating from out of state who want a luxury coastal lifestyle without entering a large or crowded subdivision.

Gift Plantation: A Historic Setting With Modern Appeal

Gift Plantation sits along the Intracoastal Waterway and blends historic Lowcountry charm with modern homes. It features larger properties, stately oak trees, and amenities that appeal to long term residents.

Appealing features include:

• • A community dock on the intracoastal
• Tennis courts and a neighborhood pool
• Larger homes with generous acreage
• Peaceful setting with easy access to Charleston and the beaches

This community is ideal for buyers who want a more traditional, upscale atmosphere with space and privacy.

Swygert’s Landing: A Coastal Village Feel

Swygert’s Landing is a well kept secret for buyers who want curb appeal, community amenities, and a neighbor friendly atmosphere without entering a massive master planned development. It offers charming coastal architectural styles, front porches, and a walkable layout.

Why it is overlooked but valuable:

• Attractive price points for the island
• Charming coastal design with strong visual appeal
• Community pool and playground
• Quick access to restaurants on Maybank Highway

Swygert’s Landing works well for first time buyers and families who want a beautiful home in a community with personality.

Why These Hidden Neighborhoods Matter

While Johns Island continues to grow, the most desirable pockets are the ones that offer privacy, charm, and natural beauty. Larger planned communities attract most of the attention, but buyers often find their perfect match in these quieter, lesser known areas. Many of these neighborhoods have stronger resale value because they are limited in size, offer unique features, or sit in scenic locations that cannot be replicated.

A trusted Real Estate Agent in Johns Island SC like Heather Gregory can help buyers understand the pros and cons of each pocket, review flood zones, evaluate long term value, and locate homes that align with lifestyle and budget goals.

Start Your Johns Island Home Search With Local Insight

Whether you are relocating from out of state or moving within the Charleston area, working with an agent who knows the island on a deeper level ensures you do not miss the neighborhoods that offer the best opportunities. Heather Gregory brings local knowledge, negotiation experience, and a strong understanding of the island’s hidden gems.

Source: Heather Gregory Realtor

Prophet Coffee, located at 194 Jackson Street on the Eastside has announced their location closing in April, 2026.

In an Instagram message written out of love, the team shared:

“Small business is crazy. One day you’re celebrating your third anniversary, and then next you’re announcing bad news. Some projects just don’t pan out the way you’d hoped.

Can’t thank our staff enough. To our amazing customers, regulars, dogs, and that one burglar. We will miss you everyday. 

Can’t be too sad. Things happen for a reason. We have a lot of really great things going for us, and we’re very excited to focus on those. 

Starting next week, downtown will begin limited hours as some of our staff transition onto new things.

*Wed-Sun 8-1pm*

We’ll be closing up shop mid-late April, and obviously throwing a party. Date TBD!

Looking forward to seeing all of you over the next few weeks to celebrate such a beautiful space we’ve gotten to call home over the last 6 months.

With that being said, 194 Jackson St. Is available for lease. Shoot an email to Bryson@prophet-coffee.com and let’s talk. 

Downtown, this isn’t goodbye, but see you later 😉

STAY BLESSED
PROPHET
XOXO”

We love y’all and know you aren’t going away.

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. –Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. and Northwood Investors LLC and its affiliates are excited to announce plans for a new Wegmans location on the Ballantyne® campus. Known for its unmatched customer service, restaurant foods, one-stop shopping and consistent low prices, the popular grocer will be situated at North Community House Road on the east side of Ballantyne. Wegmans is targeting opening by the third quarter of 2026.

“Four years after opening our first store in North Carolina, we’re excited to announce that Wegmans is coming to Charlotte,” said Dan Aken, vice president of real estate and store planning. “We’ve received hundreds of requests from locals asking for a store in their area, and we’ve spent years looking for exactly the right location. We’re thrilled to bring the Wegmans experience to this community.”

At approximately 110,000 square feet, Wegmans’ Ballantyne location will feature all the traditional departments Wegmans customers have come to know and love, including an abundant produce department, a wide variety of seafood, meat, bakery, deli, and cheese options, and a large selection of wine and beer. In addition, the store will have a market café with indoor and outdoor seating for customers to enjoy Wegmans delicious restaurant foods.

“As we’ve continued to enhance the offerings all across Ballantyne, we’ve seen the need for a more experiential grocer in the community,” said Clifton Coble, senior vice president of development for Northwood Office. “Wegmans, of course, was top of mind. We recognize how beloved it is throughout the East Coast and North Carolina and are ecstatic for it to join our tenant mix.”

A premier family-owned supermarket, Wegmans boasts choice, quality and value in every aisle. Its chefs make fresh, delicious meals throughout the day and shoppers are invited to engage with the team’s culinary experts to discuss the preparation of meals, pairings and ingredients. The grocer also provides an unmatched variety of different fruits and vegetables on any given day, including many organic choices. Each location builds strong partnerships with nearby growers and, in season, offers locally grown produce picked daily and delivered directly to the store.

Wegmans is also known for its high-quality seafood and sushi, meats, baked goods, deli, beer, and foods from around the world. Additional offerings include Meals2Go and catering, online shopping capabilities, a floral shop, coffee, home and entertaining options, and family packs.

From its position on North Community House Road, Wegmans will be less than a half mile from Ballantyne’s highly anticipated mixed-use development, The Bowl at Ballantyne™, where tenants including Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, North Italia, Flower Child, Harriet’s Hamburgers, Roosters and more are set to open this year.

To learn more about how Ballantyne continues to evolve, visit goballantyne.com or follow its Facebook and Instagram or contact Kelly Walsh, 585-765-5162, kelly@evolveprandmarketing.com.

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Recognized internationally as one of the most successfully designed and executed mixed-use communities, the Ballantyne® campus is a 2,000-acre community in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Ballantyne® area features thousands of apartments, over 1,000 single-family homes, the highest-rated public schools, nearly 600 hotel rooms, 20+ miles of walking paths and bike lanes plus a greenway extension, over 100 acres of parks and green space, as well as dozens of restaurants, medical and retail amenities. With a laser-sharp focus on providing the nation’s most desirable work-life balance community, Northwood Office owns and manages 4.5 million square feet of Class A office space at Ballantyne® with additional entitlements in place on the 535-acre property. Efforts to create a more urban, walkable environment include The Bowl at Ballantyne™, home to a well-curated lineup of restaurants, shops and services opening in 2024. Visit goballantyne.com for the latest community happenings, project updates and leasing availabilities.

Interested in a career at this location? Click HERE.

Photo Source: Wegmans

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