Governor McMaster signs bill to boost affordable housing and revitalize communities

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) — Affordable housing continues to be a major challenge across the Palmetto State, but change could be on the way.

Gov. Henry McMaster signed new legislation Thursday, Oct. 30 aimed at creating more housing options and revitalizing communities.

The discussion centered around building communities where people can live, work, and enjoy life all in one place.

The new law is designed to help revitalize areas like the old Navy Yard in North Charleston, with a focus on bringing more opportunities and sustainable growth to the region.

Gov. McMaster and local leaders say the legislation will make homeownership more attainable, bring people closer to where they work, and create new jobs all while expanding local resources.

Officials say Charleston County continues to boom, especially in North Charleston, and that it’s essential to keep up with the region’s rapid growth while meeting residents’ housing needs.

State Senator Deon Tedder says the law represents an important step toward building balanced, inclusive communities.

“The quality of life is certainly a big key here,” said Senator Tedder. “Not only is this going to have places for people to go and work and create workspaces so people that may have their small businesses and entrepreneurs can use these workspaces for people to live and work in the same area. Public transportation, all of this is happening in North Charleston. We’re excited, but we have to be mindful that we want to include everyone and make sure we keep things affordable as well.”

The Navy Yard is one of several areas slated for potential redevelopment with officials hoping to turn old spaces into new opportunities for families across the Lowcountry.