Beaufort’s Old Jail Set for a New Life as Condominiums
Beaufort is buzzing with excitement as plans to breathe new life into the historic Old Jail are finally taking shape. Just a few years ago, this 86-year-old beauty was on the brink of being demolished—a sad fate for a building that has so much character and history. But thanks to a committed developer, it seems the story of the Old Jail is far from over.
The Old Jail: A New Beginning
This once-proud jail, recognized for its distinct art deco architecture, has been lying empty since 1992 and has sadly been left to deteriorate. But the dedicated folks at Wheeler and Wheeler Properties are ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work! With construction possibly kicking off in early 2025, the plan is to transform this historic structure into trendy condominiums.
Wheeler and Wheeler believes that the Old Jail can be a landmark in Beaufort, becoming a centerpiece of a larger, ambitious housing development plan. Known as Justice Place, this project is not just about condos; it’s part of a visionary $15 million redevelopment that spans two city blocks.
A Closer Look at Justice Place
What exactly does Justice Place entail? Well, it’s a bit of a three-part plan. The developers are looking to create market-rate housing along with up to 39 affordable workforce housing units for residents earning between 50% and 100% of the county’s median income. That’s fantastic news for anyone looking for a cozy place to call home in Beaufort!
Jeff Wheeler, one of the partners, is still buzzing about the project and shared that they plan to rent out nine condos. These will include six one-bedroom units (under 735 square feet) and three two-bedroom units (between 900 and 1,050 square feet). Imagine living in a home that keeps the charm of the past while offering modern comforts!
Challenges Along the Way
Now, before you get too excited, it’s important to know that there have been some hiccups along the way. While Wheeler originally hoped to begin construction sooner, some delays have popped up. The developer had to tackle the challenge of removing two older buildings on the site before transitioning into the housing phase. They’re currently working on relocating state employees who have been using those buildings. But despite these bumps, hope remains high for a successful launch soon!
Preserving History
One of the most exciting parts of this project is the commitment to preserving what makes the Old Jail so unique. Although interior cells will be remodeled, the iconic jail bars and hallways will be incorporated into the new living spaces, giving future residents a sense of connection to the building’s fascinating history.
Constructed in 1938, the Old Jail is not just any old building; it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It would have been a tragedy if this architectural gem was lost forever. Thanks to this project, it will remain a part of Beaufort’s narrative for years to come.
What’s Next?
So, what’s on the horizon for Beaufort residents? Well, all eyes will be on the South Carolina Housing Finance and Development Authority, as Wheeler and Wheeler are still waiting for approval to proceed with the workforce housing component. They have submitted a funding application for this part of the project and are optimistic about receiving good news by the end of the year.
As Beaufort continues to develop and grow in exciting ways, the transformation of the Old Jail into a vibrant community space signals a bright future for the historic district. Stay tuned; things are heating up, and we can’t wait to see how this story unfolds!
