At the Committee of the Whole meeting on Thursday, July 16, the UDO project team provided City Council and the public with an update on the project’s progress and the proposed framework for developing North Charleston’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO).

The presentation explained why a modern UDO is needed and how it will help translate the vision of the PRIME North Charleston Comprehensive Plan into clear, predictable development rules that guide future growth. The project team also highlighted the extensive research and community engagement completed to date to understand North Charleston’s unique opportunities and challenges, as well as the priorities and concerns of residents, business owners, and other stakeholders.

Building on this foundation, the team presented its key findings and recommendations for the UDO. Topics included expanding housing choice and affordability, creating context-sensitive neighborhoods, improving the quality of the built environment, strengthening resilience and sustainability, and streamlining development review processes.

With the Committee’s support, the project team will continue working closely with City staff to draft the UDO while maintaining an active community engagement process throughout the project. The goal is to create a new playbook that equips North Charleston with the tools needed to manage growth in a way that strengthens, not strains, the community.

Check out the meeting materials below to learn more.

• Meeting Presentation
• Council Meeting Recording