The Plan for Pine Island
FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about the plan for Pine Island. We’ll continue to build out this page and add more information as our plans develop. If you have a question that is not answered below, click here to contact us.
We have been told that "our way of life is at stake". Is that true?
No. Our plans have been intentionally designed to not only help ensure that your way of life can continue, but also to invest in the future generations of St. Helena.
Is this a threat to nearby working farms?
No. We will support local farming operations, and our plans minimize any impact on these farms and local produce operations.
Are there going to be "no more crabs, shrimp and fish"?
No. We are intentionally minimizing any impact to the waterways. But just FYI…shellfish harvesting in the waters around Pine Island is restricted because of pollution from Morgan Island. Be careful!
Will this cause land loss and displacement?
No. Our plans displace zero local residents and will not cause any land loss. In fact, we will support education initiatives around land preservation and retention strategies.
People are saying you don't have the infrastructure to support your proposals. Do you?
Pine Island is 500 acres of high and dry soils. The infrastructure needs for the development can be met with ease and with minimal local impact.
What is Pine Island? Is it a barrier island?
Pine Island is a privately owned property which is approximately 500 acres. It is not a barrier island and not to be confused with Pine Island in Charleston County.
What has Pine Island been used for?
Pine island has been enjoyed as a gated private retreat for recreation and hospitality for over 150 years.
How many homes can you put on Pine Island?
Currently, per T2R zoning, up to 166 single family homes are allowed, with 166 septic tanks and 166 wells.
How many homes are on your plan?
Our plan is to reduce housing density by over 60%, capping the number of homes at 65.
How many docks can be on Pine Island?
We can have over 100 docks along 7.5 miles of shoreline.
How many docks are on your plan?
Our plan is to reduce the number of docks by over 90% along the 7.5 miles of shoreline.
Will residents live on Pine Island?
Our future homeowners will not utilize Pine Island as a permanent residence.
Will traffic increase?
Will schools be impacted?
No, as Pine Island is not a traditional development that brings full-time residents and families.
Have you found any endangered species?
No, we have not. We hired numerous professional environmental consultants to ensure proper stewardship.
Are you cutting down all the trees?
No. While some trees will be harvested, we are committed to saving grand trees and will “build what the land gives us.”
How are you going to ensure wildlife can co-exist with your development?
In planning contiguous natural areas thoughtfully connected via wildlife corridors, we will ensure that we have healthy forestry habitat for our wildlife. We will also plan food plots for deer and turkey as well as provide wading bird habitat for migratory birds.
Where is St. Helenaville? Is it the entire property?
Sadly, most of St. Helenaville was destroyed by multiple hurricanes in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Most of the site is now underwater in Village Creek, but we are protecting and preserving possible areas that can help us learn more.
“The owner’s plan is to uncover, preserve and enhance the remarkable history of this property.”
– Larry Rowland, Ph.D., University of South Carolina – Beaufort