31 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com enhancements to this cherished historic town landmark included a new roof and siding, energy-efficient windows, updated interiors and the addition of a large outdoor patio. Major site improvements include new sidewalks, updated landscaping with a wetland buffer to protect the harbor and a new irrigation system across the Grand Lawn. The adjoining park and playground were also fully renovated with ADA-accessible paths and ramps, rubberized safety surfacing, award-winning expression swings, a sensoryfriendly roller slide and scenic harbor bench swings. "Alhambra Hall is a Mount Pleasant landmark that possesses a Lowcountry ambiance combined with a view that creates one of the most memorable experiences our region has to offer,” said Mayor Will Haynie. “The refurbishment preserves the building for future generations and the improvement to the grounds and playground area represent significant upgrades to better serve our residents." SAFE STREETS FOR ALL GRANT The town secured a $15.78 million federal Safe Streets for All grant to design and construct 17 priority safety improvement projects identified in the town’s Safety Action Plan. These projects focus on reducing accidents through upgrades to high-risk corridors, improved intersections, access management treatments, new pedestrian and bicycle facilities and enhanced data-driven safety planning, according to TOMP Communications Manager Eric LaFontaine. The grant also supports continued safety audits, network screening and the development of future design solutions that improve crossings, calm traffic and expand safe, walkable and bike-friendly connections throughout the town. USS YORKTOWN ENVIRONMENTAL CLEANUP Completed in October, the $31.6 million USS Yorktown Environmental Assessment and Remediation project executed the successful removal of all the ship’s toxic waste and contaminants. On Nov. 12, Gov. Henry McMaster and other state leaders joined the Patriots Point Development Authority and Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie in making the announcement. An American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funded the multi-year cleanup effort, which removed more than 1.6 million gallons of hazardous materials and nine tons of asbestos from the Yorktown. The South Carolina Office of Resilience led the project, which prevented contaminants from leaking into Charleston Harbor and threatening the surrounding marshes and marine life – marking one of South Carolina’s most significant environmental projects. ALL AMERICAN BOULEVARD The Town of Mount Pleasant held a ribbon-cutting our town ceremony on Nov. 12 to mark the opening of the completed All American Boulevard. The project extends the road from its terminus near Wholesale Appliance to the roundabout on Park West Boulevard at U.S. Highway 17, creating a new frontage road that improves mobility and access for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists. This connection enhances interconnectivity, supports nearby businesses and neighborhoods and helps ease congestion along the U.S. 17 corridor. “This project is a great example of the town’s commitment to improving transportation resiliency and mobility options for all roadway users,” said deputy director of Engineering and Development Services James Aton. “The All American Boulevard frontage road system helps connect community and improve safety.” All American Boulevard is dedicated to Mount Pleasant’s military heroes killed in the Global War on Terrorism. COMPREHENSIVE 2025 WAGE STUDY The Town completed a full wage and compensation study to evaluate market competitiveness, support recruitment and retention and ensure pay structures remain aligned with regional benchmarks. The study resulted in pay increases across many positions town-wide, with a focus on adjustments for first responders that improve competitiveness in police and fire recruitment. These changes reinforce the town’s commitment to supporting its workforce, strengthening public safety and maintaining high-quality service delivery for residents, according to TOMP Communications Manager Eric LaFontaine. TOMP RECREATION DEPARTMENT • Town hires new Recreation Director TJ Rostin in January. • The Captain Wayne Magwood Fisherman’s Memorial, which honors one of Mount Pleasant's most iconic figures in the shrimping community, was erected in April on the Magwood Boardwalk overlooking Shem Creek. • Completed major pool renovation at Park West with new lobby area, reconstructed locker rooms and pool offices, new HVAC system, a family restroom and a dedicated staff office. • New, multi-use artificial turf field built for baseball and softball. • Finalized design plans to expand play at the Mount Pleasant Tennis Complex off Whipple Road with six additional courts. • After attendance declined significantly during COVID-19, Mount Pleasant Senior Center membership numbers surpassed 2,000 people, with the facility having now fully rebounded since the pandemic. • The town celebrated the 30th anniversary of its annual Christmas Light Parade on Dec. 14.
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