We're digging into an ongoing local development to help bridge the gap between the city + community.

Battery Park Pedestrian Bridge, aka Noisette Creek Pedestrian Bridge, is nearing completion. This North Charleston development was recently named one of the world's most beautiful elevated walkways.

We're taking this opportunity to look into the past, present, and future of the project.

Stroll down this 800-foot bridge with views of the creek. | Rendering via @thomasandhutton

The past

Revitalization plans for the former Charleston Naval Base have been in the works for about two decades. Plans included a footbridge over Noisette Creek.

In 2019, the city expected to begin working on a pedestrian bridge soon to accommodate the growing popularity of Riverfront Park. The first concrete deck was poured in 2021.

Thomas & Hutton, a multidisciplinary firm, has provided services for the project that include surveying, landscape architecture, structural design, and permitting.

The present

The bridge, currently under construction, is gaining recognition. Architectural Digest included the development on its list of The 11 Most Beautiful Elevated Walkways Through Nature.

The winding structure is 800 linear feet, with two 55-foot-tall steel arches and views of Noisette Creek. It will also include a gathering space over the water.

The project is expected to be completed in about a month and a half, and could open sometime in December. No opening date has been set. Stay tuned for updates.

The bridge will connect Riverfront Park to a new development. | Rendering via @thomasandhutton

The future

The bridge will be the first piece of infrastructure to connect the two sides of Noisette Creek, increasing mobility + accessibility.

The structure connects Riverfront Park to a future mixed-use development that would transform part of the former Navy Base with restaurant, residential, and open spaces.

If the bridge opens in 2022, it will join North Charleston the same year thatthe city turned 50. Here's to 50 more years.