St. Helena Island, August 30, 2025
News Summary
Beaufort County has announced a long-overdue plan for a Gullah Geechee cultural center and village entrepreneurial market on St. Helena Island. Originally proposed in 2017, this 54,000 square-foot center aims to celebrate Gullah Geechee culture and boost local business. With strong community support, the project includes a performing arts center and an open market, emphasizing local cuisine over fast food. Additional funding is needed to realize this significant cultural initiative, which seeks to enhance economic growth and cultural exchange in the community.
Beaufort County Unveils New Plan for Gullah Geechee Cultural Center After Eight-Year Delay
Beaufort County has revealed a long-awaited plan to establish a Gullah Geechee cultural center and a village entrepreneurial market at St. Helena Island. The project, first proposed in 2017, aims to provide a vibrant space to celebrate the Gullah Geechee culture while stimulating local business development. The initial presentation of the plans took place on August 29, 2025, courtesy of Councilman York Glover.
The proposed cultural center will span 54,000 square feet, making it the largest indoor gathering space on St. Helena Island. It will feature a 10,000 square-foot multipurpose event and performing arts center, alongside an open market of equal size, designated for farmers and craft markets. An additional 34,000 square feet will be allocated for retail spaces facing Polowana Road and Sea Island Parkway.
The goal of the cultural center is to foster economic growth, encouraging local entrepreneurship while highlighting Gullah-Geechee heritage. The plans emphasize the inclusion of local cuisine in the retail mix, explicitly excluding fast food chains to ensure that the center aligns with community values and tastes. Positioned across from the 808 Community Hub, which is a starter community center developed by Elvio Tropeano, the location of the new project aligns with existing community needs.
While Tropeano’s own community center proposal is currently stalled amidst a controversial golf course development plan, Glover clarified that the county’s initiative is not a direct response to that project. The need for a cultural and community-focused center was reinforced by a feasibility study completed in 2022, which highlighted the importance of creating venues for local cultural events that fit the area’s demographic profile.
To advance the project, the county will need to secure an additional $595,000 for land acquisition, which is partially supported by a $1 million grant already in place. The estimated cost for constructing the performing arts center alone is approaching $7 million. Local overviews have shown general support for the project, noting its potential impact on economic development and cultural exchange, while there are several private investors and philanthropic organizations expressing interest in providing financial backing.
Glover has committed to incorporating community feedback as final plans are developed and indicated that updates will be shared in the coming weeks, keeping local residents engaged in the project’s progression.
Summary of Cultural Center Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | St. Helena Island, across from the 808 Community Hub |
| Total Area | 54,000 square feet |
| Multipurpose Event Space | 10,000 square feet |
| Open Market Space | 10,000 square feet |
| Retail Space | 34,000 square feet |
| Estimated Cost for Performing Arts Center | Approximately $7 million |
| Additional Funding Required | $595,000 for land acquisition |
FAQ
What is the Gullah Geechee Cultural Center?
The Gullah Geechee Cultural Center will serve as a space to celebrate and promote Gullah Geechee culture while providing resources and support for local businesses.
When was the project first proposed?
The project was initially proposed in 2017, with recent developments unfolding in 2025.
How large will the cultural center be?
The center will cover a total area of 54,000 square feet, with various dedicated spaces including performing arts and an open market.
What are the goals of the center?
The main goals are to stimulate local economy, enhance cultural awareness, and provide a venue for community gatherings and events.
Is there community support for the project?
Yes, local residents have generally expressed support for the center, acknowledging its potential contributions to economic growth and cultural recognition.
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Additional Resources
- Bluffton Today: Lowcountry Community Calendar of Events
- Savannah Business Journal: Beaufort County Assessor Hosting Community Events
- Post and Courier: Beaufort County Republican Party Skip Hoagland Arrested
- Island Packet: Beaufort News
- Explore Beaufort SC: 69th Annual Beaufort Water Festival Schedule
- Wikipedia: Gullah
- Google Search: Gullah Geechee Cultural Center
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gullah
- Google News: Beaufort County Events
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