The best countertops make a statement in your home that other features cannot. You've worked hard to incorporate unique designs and flavors throughout your home, so why should your countertops be any different?
At Real Deal Countertops, we aspire to combine the beauty and durability of natural stone with unrivaled, personalized attention to all customers. With the highest quality materials and the most helpful customer service, we give our clients the opportunity to make informed decisions that they feel good about for years. Our story in the countertop fabrication and manufacturing industry began more than 19 years ago, when Rafael Quedevez started out as a sales representative in Massachusetts. Working his way up through the ranks, Rafael soon made his way to South Carolina to open and manage his own companies. In 2013, we created real Deal Countertops. Since that time, we are proud to have served more than 5,000 customers in South Carolina and beyond.
Our leadership team combines more than 40 years of experience in the home remodeling service industry. Always striving to create a better product for our customers, we use the latest in robotics technologies and the sharpest minds in the business to craft countertops of unparalleled quality. Unlike other countertop companies in Summerville, SC, we only source the finest stone slabs in the world.
At Real Deal Countertops, we offer a wide range of styles and materials to choose from, including:

Quartzite

Caesarstone

Silestone

Marble

Sensa

Pollar White

Vicostone

Quartz
We are committed to ensuring that granite, marble, and other unique, exotic stones are attainable to all who desire them. If you're in search of a trustworthy counter company with a team of knowledgeable, helpful experts, you have come to the right place!
Most Popular Countertops in Summerville, SC
Choosing the best countertops for your kitchen is an important decision, but it doesn't have to be a hard one. One of the best ways to narrow down your search is to find out what kind of countertop material you'd like to use. While it's true that material and style trends change over time, there are several counters that have always been top sellers.
Some of the most popular countertops we sell include:
Marble Countertops in Summerville, SC

There's no way around it - marble adds jaw-dropping beauty to just about any room and is known for its good looks. It is a dense stone that comes in many different hues like greens, browns, pinks, greys, whites, and more. While marble countertops often have otherworldly beauty, they can be susceptible to stains and cracks. Marble is also considered one of the most expensive counters to choose from, though the truth is marble comes in a wide range of qualities and prices.
- Pros: Stunning beauty, plenty of beautiful choices.
- Cons: Not always used in kitchens due to chance of staining.
- Popular Colors: Portinari, Shadow Storm, Super White, Lumen, Calacatta Linconni, Nobulato Honned, Shadow, Grey Imperiale Honed.


Granite Countertops in Summerville, SC

When it comes to popularity, granite countertops take the cake. Granite countertops usually contain a blend of quartz, feldspar, mica, and other minerals. Granite can add an edge of elegance and even a country-chic feel to your kitchen, making it a well-rounded stone. Granite is durable and scratch-resistant, though it can require sealing and DIY chip repair.
- Pros: Luxurious, rich look featuring natural stone that is durable, heat resistant, and scratch-resistant.
- Cons: Hard material that may require DIY chip repair and sealing.
- Popular Colors: Blue Jeans, Creama Pearl, Alure, Galaxy White, Luna Pear, Steel Grey, Ubatuba, Oro Brazil.
Quartz Countertops in Summerville, SC

Quartz is a manufactured material that represents one of our favorite four-letter words: easy! If you're looking to add a high-end feel to your kitchen or bathroom, quartz is an excellent material to consider. Like granite, quartz countertops can add a decadent vibe to any room. Unlike granite, you may not have to seal quartz quite as often (if ever).
- Pros: Quartz countertops come in plenty of colors to choose from and are easy to clean. They are also strong, scratch-resistant, and don't require sealing.
- Cons: Quartz is not as heat resistant as other materials like granite counters. Sharp corners tend to crack, but that can be remedied with rounded corners.
- Popular Colors: Noble Grey, Raw Concrete, Frosty Carrina, Shitake, Pebble, Pietra Grey, Sierra Madre, Arctic.


Silestone Countertops in Summerville, SC

A manufactured material made from quartz crystals, Silestone countertops are equal parts gorgeous and practical. Known for being a durable, non-porous choice, Silestone is resistant to stains, scratches, and even some forms of bacteria. Homeowners who choose Silestone do so because they can get a high-end look without having to worry too much about maintenance. Silestone counters look great in many different homes, from contemporary abodes with modern accents to vintage-looking kitchens.
- Pros: Silestone countertops are non-porous, meaning germs and bacteria can't lodge themselves inside this material. This makes Silestone counters great for kitchens and bathrooms alike. This material also comes in a wide variety of colors and resists scratches and chips. Overall, Silestone is an excellent choice if you want to make a solid long-term investment without much upkeep.
- Cons: While Silestone is great if you're looking for a low-maintenance counter option, it can be sensitive to harsh chemicals like bleach and ammonia. Silestone is also not recommended for outdoor use since the resins used to make the material do not do well with UV light.
- Popular Colors: Daria, Gray Expo, Lagoon, Calacatta Gold, Arctic, Blanco City, Gris Expo, Desert Silver
Quartzite Countertops in Summerville, SC

Not to be confused with quartz countertops, which are manmade, quartzite is a naturally occurring stone that is quarried much in the same way that granite is. If you're a fan of marble counters, quartzite mimics its looks without as much upkeep. Like granite, it is a very durable choice and adds an upscale feeling to almost any room you choose.
- Pros: Since it doesn't require any special cleaners, quartzite looks great without much maintenance. When it gets dirty, soap and water should be all you need to clean. Quartzite is also a great long-term option since it doesn't wear down quickly at all.
- Cons: Heat is required to form quartzite. However, you should avoid putting hot pots and pans on your quartzite countertops. Because quartzite comes in many different varieties, some forms of quartzite need to be sealed more often than others.
- Popular Colors: Maya, Fusion, Locomotion, Callacata, Airy Concrete, Cocada White

Which Countertop is Right for You?
If you're just beginning your search for new countertops, it can be a little overwhelming trying to whittle down your options. We've got good news - with over 19 years in the industry, our team of experts has learned a thing or two about countertops. When you come to the Real Deal Countertops showroom, one of our goals is to educate you about our products and your countertop options, so you can make an educated purchasing decision.

How Will You Use Your Countertops in Summerville?

The first and perhaps most crucial part of your countertop choice should stem from how you and your family use your countertops. For example, if you have kids, your counters will probably see a lot of activity. Between standard eating times and "in-between" meals that teens are known for, your counters might double as food prep stations. As such, you might need a countertop material that is resistant to most food and beverage stains. If you own a rental property that sees a lot of foot traffic from strangers, you might want to consider an economical material that is also durable.
- Do you cook a lot?
- Do you host a lot of parties?
- How long will you be living in your home?
- How long will you be living in your home?
Once you figure out exactly how you'll be using your countertops, you can begin to narrow down your choices.

How Much Upkeep Is Too Much?
Be realistic and honest with yourself about this question. Before you fall in love with how a countertop material looks, be sure you understand how much upkeep is needed. Some materials require more care, while others don't need much at all.
Keep these points in mind:
- Materials like quartz only need to be wiped down occasionally.
- Materials like granite, marble, and limestone will need to be sealed at least once a year.
- Some materials may be durable but aren't stain resistant.
The bottom line is this: Assess the maintenance demands that come along with the materials you're looking at. Marble countertops in Summerville, SC are elegant, but if you'e unwilling to keep them looking their best, why bother buying the material?
You should be aware that most countertop materials will require some form of upkeep, even if it' minimal. To help keep your counters in pristine condition, consider these care and precaution tips:
- Many common foods contain acids that will dull or even damage the surface of stone countertops.Use coasters to protect your counters, especially if you'e drinking something with citrus juices or alcohol.
- Do not place scalding hot pots or pans directly on your countertops.
- Use mats or trivets to place under hot dishes.
- If you spill liquid on your countertops, blot the spill with a paper towel ASAP. Wiping the spill will cause it to spread.
- Use mild soap and plain water to clean up stains.
Which Colors and Materials Match Your Home's Aesthetics?
For many homeowners, this question is almost always top-of-mind. After all, you want to choose colors and materials that fit well with other features in your home. When selecting your countertop materials, try to choose a tone that contrasts with your other amenities, like your cabinets. Don't go for a perfect match. As an example, black granite is a beautiful contrast to white cabinets.
Consider these questions when choosing your countertop materials:
- Are there one or two colors that you love more than others?
- Does your choice go well with the color of your kitchen's walls?
- Do you want to switch up your kitchen's style or keep it the same?
- Will you be painting your kitchen a different color in the future?
- Will you be replacing your appliances soon?


Real Deal Countertops Pro Tip:
Because your home's accessories and paint job may change with time, your countertops should have a versatile color. That way, you won't have problems matching them with new paint colors or appliances.


Countertop Remodeling Done Right
At Real Deal Countertops, our #1 priority is your satisfaction. Unlike some countertop companies in Summerville, we make it a point to exceed our customer's expectations. We strive for excellence with every transaction we complete and pledge to faithfully implement innovative techniques to ensure that our products remain affordable. With the help of Real Deal Countertops, remodeling your kitchen and bath will be painless and easy.
The appearance of a kitchen or bath depends on the right countertop selection, proper fabrication, and expert installation. Are you interested in granite countertops in Summerville, SC? Maybe quartzite is a better choice for your family. Whatever you choose, know that our skilled installers and fabricators will make a template so that all custom pieces fit perfectly in your home.
Ready to get started? Have questions about our inventory?
We're here to help answer all your questions. Please feel free to give our office a call today at 866-707-1414 Before you know it, you will be ready for your new set of Real Deal Countertops!
Contact UsLatest News in Summerville, SC
Summerville celebrates rivalry’s 100th birthday with rout of Berkeley
David Shelton Special to The Post and Courierhttps://www.postandcourier.com/sports/highschool/summerville-celebrates-rivalrys-100th-birthday-with-rout-of-berkeley/article_856552f8-48fa-11ee-873a-b3146d21cd38.html
SUMMERVILLE — On the 100th anniversary of the Charleston area’s longest high school football rivalry, Summerville senior wide receiver Yannick Smith put his personal stamp on the game, leading the Green Wave to a 62-27 win over the Berkeley Stags at John McKissick Field.Smith had a remarkable first half with four touchdowns, two via the air and two on the ground, as Summerville opened a 35-6 halftime lead. The 6-3 East Carolina commit had touchdown receptions of 45 and 33 yards from quarterback Jaden Cummings, and also ran...
SUMMERVILLE — On the 100th anniversary of the Charleston area’s longest high school football rivalry, Summerville senior wide receiver Yannick Smith put his personal stamp on the game, leading the Green Wave to a 62-27 win over the Berkeley Stags at John McKissick Field.
Smith had a remarkable first half with four touchdowns, two via the air and two on the ground, as Summerville opened a 35-6 halftime lead. The 6-3 East Carolina commit had touchdown receptions of 45 and 33 yards from quarterback Jaden Cummings, and also ran for scores of 11 and 47 yards.
Cummings also tossed a touchdown pass to Sheldon Green in the first half. Cummings threw for 262 yards in the game. Running back Trae Green had two rushing touchdowns and Ashton Allen-Hawkins had a score.
Summerville scored on the second play of the game when Cummings connected with Green on their 60-yard touchdown less than a minute into the game.
After forcing a Berkeley punt, Summerville scored again on their second snap with Cummings and Smith combined on a 33-yard pass and run and the Green Wave led 14-0 with 9:28 left in the first quarter.
Summerville’s defense was up to the task as well early on, limiting the Stags to just four total yards in the first quarter. The Green Wave went up 21-0 on Smith’s 11-yard rush out of the wildcat formation. That score was set up by an interception and return of 74 yards by Jaden Kelly to thwart a Berkeley drive.
Berkeley put together its best drive of the first half, driving 86 yards on nine plays with freshman quarterback Henry Rivers scampering in from 19 yards to trim the lead to 21-6.
But Smith was not done, adding a 47-yard run out of the wildcat and catching a 45-yard pass from Cummings to give Summerville the commanding halftime lead.
Berkeley put together a scoring drive, aided by a key Summerville penalty on fourth down, to open the third quarter. Rivers capped the drive with a 40-yard pass to Kaden Bash, cutting Summerville’s lead to 35-13 with 8:28 left in the third.
Berkeley’s Logan Gaskins picked off a Cummings pass but the Stags were forced to punt. Summerville responded with an 85-yard drive, culminating on Green’s five-yard scoring run to push the Green Wave to a 42-13 lead with 2:18 left in the third.
Allen-Hawkins opened the fourth quarter with an eight-yard touchdown run to give the Green Wave a 49-13 lead. After Berkeley’s Dominic Fox scored a touchdown early in the fourth, Green scored his second touchdown of the night on a one-yard run with 6:12 remaining in the game.
The Stags got on the board once more with Rivers tossing his second touchdown pass of the night, a 28-yarder to Kevin Boone with 3:40 left.
The final minutes were played with backups and Summerville added a touchdown run with :34 seconds left in the game.
With the win, Summerville pushed its overall lead in the rivalry to 62-23-4. The Green Wave has won the last four.
One hundred years ago, Berkeley and Summerville played football for the first time.
“Moncks Corner overwhelmed by large score,” reported the Charleston News and Courier on Nov. 3, 1923. Summerville defeated the old Moncks Corner High School by 59-6.
“The entire Summerville backfield, Riggs at tackle and Hutchinson at end starred,” the article said. “O. Sanders at quarterback played a splendid game for Moncks Corner.”
Friday’s contest at John McKissick Field in Summerville will be the 88th overall in the series. The teams played sporadically in the 1930s and ’40s, mostly in the postseason.
The rivalry has featured many players who went on to star in college and in the NFL, and great coaches such as Summerville’s John McKissick and Berkeley’s Gerald Moody and Jerry Brown. Summerville announced Friday that the McKissick Museum, dedicated to the winningest football coach of all time, will open at 6 p.m. Sept. 1 before the Berkeley game.
Our town, our coach.Join us this evening for the McKissick Museum grand opening, tonight at 6:00 before we take on the Berkeley Stags. pic.twitter.com/jkVptNq7JZ
— Summerville Football (@SummervilleFB) September 1, 2023
The series heated up in the late 1950s, and the teams have played nearly every year from 1960-2007. That 2007 season saw each school play teams from Florida as part of a doubleheader. The series resumed in 2008 and has been played every year since.
Summerville holds a 61-23 edge in victories, with four games ending in a tie. The Green Wave holds the longest winning streak at 11 games in the series. The Stags won three straight from 2017-19, but Summerville has won the last three contests.
Current Summerville head coach Ian Rafferty is 5-0 all-time in the series. Rafferty was a player in two wins back in the 1990’s and has won all three meetings since he has been head coach.
For a long time, Berkeley and Summerville were the only high schools in their respective counties. The creation of new high schools over the years have added other rivals to each team’s schedules. Goose Creek came along in 1969, followed by fellow Berkeley County schools Stratford (1983) and Cane Bay (2008).
In Summerville’s district, Fort Dorchester (1992) and Ashley Ridge (2008) have also become rivals for the Green Wave.
“I think it still means a lot to some people, but things have really changed over the years,” Rafferty said of the Berkeley game.
Berkeley’s Eric Lodge, as a new head coach in the Lowcountry, is experiencing his first game against Summerville. The game still means a lot in Moncks Corner, he’s been told.
“I heard about that game during the interview process,” Lodge said. “I got the impression that for a lot of people, it’s still a big deal.”
As for this year’s meeting, one team will take its first loss of 2023. Summerville, the top-ranked team in the state for Class AAAAA, won its opener last week at Carolina Forest. Berkeley is off to a 2-0 start with wins over Timberland and Hanahan by a total of five points.
Both teams have excellent quarterbacks in junior Jaden Cummings at Summerville and freshman Henry Rivers at Berkeley.
“We need to play better than we did last week,” Rafferty said. “Berkeley has some good talent. Their quarterback (freshman Henry Rivers) is the real deal. They have our full attention.”
Lodge says the Green Wave is worthy of its lofty state ranking. He says Summerville has explosiveness on offense with a physical, fast defense.
Wright Cousins
Another area rivalry resumes on Saturday night as Cross hosts Berkeley County rival Timberland at 6 p.m. Cross head coach Shaun Wright and Timberland head coach Greg Wright are first cousins (their fathers are brothers). This will be the third matchup between the two as head coaches, with each having a win.
Timberland has dominated the overall series, which began after Timberland opened in 1997. Cross won games in 2000 and 2001 but did not win again in the series until last season.
In fact, Cross won the 2001 game when Greg Wright scored the winning touchdown for the Trojans. His cousin, Shaun, was an assistant coach on that team.
“Timberland sort of took off when Art Craig got there as head coach,” said Shaun Wright, who became an assistant at Timberland in 2002. “It should be a great game on Saturday night. Timberland is 0-2 but they could easily be 2-0. They are good.”
Cross is 1-1 with a win over Hemingway and a loss to Calhoun County. Timberland lost to Berkeley (36-32) and Indian Land (7-6).
David Shelton’s Lowcountry Top 10
1. Summerville
2. James Island
3. Fort Dorchester
4. Philip Simmons
5. Oceanside Collegiate
6. Lucy Beckham
7. Ashley Ridge
8. Woodland
9. West Ashley
10. Berkeley
High School Football Schedule
Sept. 1
Berkeley at Summerville
Ashley Ridge at Conway
White Knoll at Colleton Co.
Grayson (Ga.) at Fort Dorchester
Sumter at Goose Creek
Lexington at Stratford
Stall at Wando
Cane Bay at West Ashley
Timberland at Cross, 6 p.m. Saturday
Lucy Beckham at Bishop England (canceled)
First Baptist at James Island
North Charleston at Baptist Hill
Philip Simmons at Georgetown
Woodland at Bluffton (canceled)
Academic Magnet at Burke
Colleton Prep at Branchville
Palmetto Christian at Military Magnet
Denmark-Olar at St. Johns
Camden Military at Porter-Gaud
Northwood at Thomas Heyward
Ben Lippen at Pinewood Prep
Conway Christian at Faith Christian
Cross Schools at Dorchester Academy
Isolated tornadoes a risk along SC coast from Hurricane Idalia, forecasters warn
Jessica Wadehttps://www.postandcourier.com/hurricanewire/isolated-tornadoes-a-risk-along-sc-coast-from-hurricane-idalia-forecasters-warn/article_b43b1432-4693-11ee-ae5d-5be440dc02b9.html
As Hurricane Idalia spins a gradual, destructive path through Florida on its way to Georgia and South Carolina, cities and towns in its way prepare for the usual possibilities of strong winds, heavy rains and storm surge.But forecasts suggest coastal area residents should prep for another weather event associated with the incoming storm: tornadoes.The Nat...
As Hurricane Idalia spins a gradual, destructive path through Florida on its way to Georgia and South Carolina, cities and towns in its way prepare for the usual possibilities of strong winds, heavy rains and storm surge.
But forecasts suggest coastal area residents should prep for another weather event associated with the incoming storm: tornadoes.
The National Weather Service based in Charleston is predicting about a 5 percent chance of isolated tornadoes across the coastal South Carolina from the afternoon of Aug. 30 into the morning Aug. 31.
It’s not unusual for tornadoes spurred by hurricanes or tropical storms to form on the northeast flank of a storm system, said Brian Haines, a NWS meteorologist in Charleston.
“Hurricanes and tornadoes have always gone hand in hand,” Haines said.
South Carolinians don’t have to look far back in time to find that’s true.
In 2004, Hurricane Frances made landfall in Florida before sweeping up to South Carolina. That storm spawned 46 twisters in its wake.
The 1994 Tropical Storm Beryl is another example that comes to mind for Frank Strait, a severe weather liaison with the S.C. Department of Natural Resources.
Beryl churned out 23 tornadoes in South Carolina. The storm hit Lexington hard, causing millions of dollars in damages, Strait said.
Most tropical tornadoes that hit South Carolina are from systems that make landfall in the Gulf of Mexico and continue on a path toward the north or northeast.
Usually, tornadoes produced by tropical cyclones are relatively weak and short-lived, but they can still pose a significant threat, according to the National Weather Service.
The number of tornadoes possible with Idalia is difficult to forecast, Strait said.
“The important thing to keep in mind is that people who live along our coast need to be ready for this tornado risk that’s coming Wednesday night,” Strait said.
That preparation includes tuning in to local weather stations, turning on weather radios and forming a plan to find shelter well before a tornado touches down.
Idalia reached hurricane strength early Tuesday, and the National Weather Services predicts the storm will continue to intensify. It’s expected to make landfall north of Tampa, Fla., the morning of Aug. 30.
The National Hurricane Center issued a storm surge watch for the entire South Carolina shoreline. A flood watch has been issued in Charleston, coastal Colleton, Beaufort and Jasper counties for Wednesday and into Thursday morning.
Despite the potential for Idalia to churn out a tornado or two, Haines ranks storm surge, coastal flooding and heavy rainfall as more pressing and dangerous potentials than the possibility for isolated tornadoes.
He urges coastal residents to prepare.
Summerville designer Gray Benko and family are stars of new home renovation TV series
Shamira McCrayhttps://www.postandcourier.com/features/summerville-designer-gray-benko-and-family-are-stars-of-new-home-renovation-tv-series/article_2761999c-f33b-11ed-a3fc-9fb1c21386d9.html
Summerville designer Gray Benko and her family are on a quest to bring color and life back to historic spaces in the Charleston area. It’s a feat they are accomplishing head-on in a new TV series called “Happy to be Home with the Benkos.”In six episodes, Gray Benko teams up with her craftsman husband, Mike Benko, and her father, Joe “Grumpy” Highsmith, to renovate portions of six historic Charleston-area homes.Each episode features a different house that dates back at least 100 years. The idea is t...
Summerville designer Gray Benko and her family are on a quest to bring color and life back to historic spaces in the Charleston area. It’s a feat they are accomplishing head-on in a new TV series called “Happy to be Home with the Benkos.”
In six episodes, Gray Benko teams up with her craftsman husband, Mike Benko, and her father, Joe “Grumpy” Highsmith, to renovate portions of six historic Charleston-area homes.
Each episode features a different house that dates back at least 100 years. The idea is to add color, texture and fun to each one while breaking away from the “stereotypical farmhouse concept that has been so popular for so long,” said Mike Benko.
Most of the renovated spaces are ones the homeowners were unhappy with. They were either looking for a change, or the space needed some sort of structural or construction work.
The crew works to salvage the integrity of each home’s history while adding the flair of Gray Benko’s designs. Once complete, most of the spaces are revived from floor to ceiling with brand new construction, vibrant colors and patterns, antique furniture and fixtures from local shops.
Each member of the trio has their own rule in the renovations. Gray, who is also a photographer, is responsible for the designs. Highsmith, a general contractor from Hilton Head Island, oversees the construction. And Gray describes her husband, Mike, as a renaissance man who’s “like a jack-of-all-trades kind of guy.” He completes a personalized, special project for each homeowner.
Gray, a Lowcountry native, said her family’s passion for this work likely stems from living in historic homes for so many years. They’ve renovated their own homes, “and that’s kind of how this whole things started,” she said.
“I did our houses, people saw it on my Instagram, loved it and then started asking me for help with their house,” she said. “And then it all turned into this whole TV show thing, and here we are.”
“Happy to be Home with the Benkos” airs on the Magnolia Network, which features original shows curated by Chip and Joanna Gaines, the stars of the hit home renovation TV series “Fixer Upper” and owners of the Magnolia home brand. The show can be streamed on HBO Max and Discovery+, too.
Since the Benkos utilize local businesses to help with the renovations, many Lowcountry faces are seen on the show, too, like Charleston upholsterer Kelvin Moultrie of Carolina Auto Trim, seamstress Elizabeth Wheaton of Wheaton Whaley Home and designer Sally Bennet of Mirth Studio, among other South Carolinians.
The Benkos are currently taking on new projects in the Summerville and Charleston areas. Homes that are built in the 1920s or earlier are preferred.
“We are looking for people who are not afraid of color, obviously, and who have renovations that they already want to do,” Gray said.
Those who are interested should send an email to info.graybenko@gmail.com.
‘The future is growth’: Summerville businesses agree with proposed development
Anna Harrishttps://www.live5news.com/2023/07/12/future-is-growth-summerville-businesses-agree-with-proposed-development/
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCSC) - Some businesses say prioritizing a sense of place in the town of Summerville is most important and sometimes that means new development, despite what some people might think.Dorchester County has a proposed plan to turn 500 N. Main St., also...
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCSC) - Some businesses say prioritizing a sense of place in the town of Summerville is most important and sometimes that means new development, despite what some people might think.
Dorchester County has a proposed plan to turn 500 N. Main St., also known as their main county building, into a hotel, retail spaces, a parking garage and more.
Some businesses located in the heart of Summerville, like Eva’s Restaurant, think change is about time.
“If we don’t have growth, we don’t have a future,” general manager Tina Howard said.
Eva’s Restaurant has been serving the town since 1944. With the proposed development, Howard says she’s not worried about competition.
“I think it would benefit us as a small business with, you know, bringing in tourists,” Howard said. “...I don’t feel it would hurt us personally because we have such a strong, established business.”
Diane Frankenberger, the owner of People, Places & Quilts, says she’s watched Summerville grow for over 30 years. She says with the old post office as the new public works art center, the old Coca-Cola company as the new YMCA and an old hardware store as her own business, she believes both the county and town councils prioritize preservation.
“You have to go forward with the future,” Frankenberger said. “We still can’t have the same houses around here and the old town hall and no computers and blah blah blah. And so, it’s keeping a sense of place, but moving forward with an eye towards the future.”
The county has already approved plans to preserve part of the county building, which once was the old hospital, and improve the current Veteran’s monument.
“I think when people are calling names or say, ‘Don’t do something,’ let’s wait and see and work together and make the best use of what we’ve got there,” Frankenberger said.
Howard says she wants her 6-year-old grandson to be able to experience a flourishing Summerville, just like she has all her life.
“A lot of people complain about the growth and ‘People will stop coming here, we’re full, don’t come here,’” Howard said. “Without growth, we don’t have a future. The future is growth.”
Frankenberger says she’s ready to move forward.
“No more gas on the fire,” Frankenberger said. “Let’s put water on the fire.”
Dorchester County provided the following statement about the proposed plan:
Dorchester County is looking forward to having greater capacity and flexibility to complete the following projects from fee revenues of the redevelopment:
Funding to preserve the façade of the old hospital building.
A new civic park and improvements to the Veterans Memorial.
An additional $8 Million in funding to DD2 schools to supplement $2 Million from the TIF.
Provide $20 Million in funding for a Community Recreation Facility in the Summerville area.
Provide $2 Million in additional funding for streetscaping and improvements to Main Street and Cedar Street.
Provide credits for workforce housing for teachers, firefighters, law enforcement, and first responders within the multi-family development for at least 15 years.
A modern County office building and additional Class A Office Space in the downtown area.
A new downtown hotel and restaurant to provide much-needed retail and hospitality amenities in the downtown area.
Create additional parking by providing for the construction of a parking garage in the downtown area.
Copyright 2023 WCSC. All rights reserved.
SC Dept. of Parks, Recreation and Tourism gives grant for tourism in Summerville
Caitlin Ashbaughhttps://www.live5news.com/2023/07/14/sc-dept-parks-recreation-tourism-gives-grant-tourism-summerville/
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCSC) - The S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism recently granted nearly $34,000 to bring more people into Summerville.The town, acknowledged for its charm, history and its people, wants to make sure everyone gets to experience some of the Summerville way.“It feels good to be able to show off our hometown to people who can come visit and vacation here,” Town of Summerville Public Information Officer Chris Makowski said. “And to really see the beauty and the people that are here.&...
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCSC) - The S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism recently granted nearly $34,000 to bring more people into Summerville.
The town, acknowledged for its charm, history and its people, wants to make sure everyone gets to experience some of the Summerville way.
“It feels good to be able to show off our hometown to people who can come visit and vacation here,” Town of Summerville Public Information Officer Chris Makowski said. “And to really see the beauty and the people that are here.”
Summerville sees a record number of visitors, sitting at around 250,000 every year and housing more than 50,000 permanent residents.
The town hopes to boost the statewide economy by encouraging tourism and development in the area.
The community shared their thoughts on the funding and what they hope to see come out of it.
One family, planning to move to the area in just a few weeks, was ecstatic.
“As far as bringing tourists in, I do feel like it’s worth it,” future Summerville homeowner Whitney Mourlam said. “It’s just a gem, and it’s worth coming inland a little bit to check it out.”
“It’s a great location, like a little way from the touristy feel but you can really blend in and feel like you’re a local right away,” future Summerville homeowner Mark Mourlam said. “We want to grow our family down here and live everything Summerville has to offer.”
One long-term resident said he enjoys seeing his town thrive, but worries about what it could mean for traffic, infrastructure and the cost of living.
“I’ve watched the growth, and it’s terrific how fast and how large this place has gotten,” Summerville Homeowner John Calvert said. “But you can only build so many apartments and so many subdivisions. We’re running out of space!”
There are no specific projects or plans for the grant.
The Town of Summerville says they want to allocate the money toward marketing campaigns through social media, magazines and the local visitor center, to name a few.
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