Memorial Waterfront Park is the new flagship park in the Charleston suburb of Mt. Pleasant. Located in the shadows of the newly completed Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, the 22 acre park is home to the Mt. Pleasant Visitors Center and features public pavilions, open green space, a playground, war memorial and a 1250 foot long fishing pier. The park was designed by ADC Engineering and cost $14 million to build.
Location
Capitalizing on the popularity of the Ravenel Bridge’s pedestrian walkway and Patriots Point, the park reclaims a sizable chunk of land that was formerly the location of the previous Cooper River Bridges, as well as a staging area for the construction of the new bridge. Because it is not visible from any major road, ample signage directs people to the park. Parking is relegated to the space underneath the bridge approach span, thereby preserving as much land as possible for park functions.
The Pier
The pier, measuring in at 1250 feet in length, is the longest in the area and seems to provide ample space for fishing, walking and sitting. It is constructed of concrete and features four covered seating pavilions. Although nothing informs visitors of this, the pier is actually built on the partially demolished support columns from the old Cooper River Bridge – a fitting homage given the enormous impact the bridge had on development of Mt. Pleasant over the past 50 years. A walk to the end of the pier provides tremendous views of the new bridge towering above, the harbor stretching out in all directions, Patriots Point to the southeast and all of the ship traffic that passes daily.
Design
From the perspective of design, the park feels clean and modern. Primary materials, simple connections and clean lines dominate views. Structures are designed with a clear hierarchy of materials and connections are expressed. This can be seen best on the pier where concrete forms the structural backbone of the then steel and wood canopies. Lighting on the pier is taken care of through traditional posts, canopy uplighting and an over-designed recessed wooden light assembly located in each concrete railing post. Seating is handled through an extensive collection of metal and wood benches, tables and swings. The landscape of the park space feels urban thanks to the array of sculpted and curved walkways, open grass areas, numerous planting beds, groups of flowers and water features. A curved trellis and fountain that surround a bronze sculpture of a woman holding a folded flag make up a solemn war memorial. The park compliments the Ravenel Bridge in every sense of the word and is a comfortable place for people to be while on the harbor.
