The first year MCRP student trip to Charleston was an opportunity for students to learn about contemporary planning issues in a region outside of Atlanta. Students had tours of historic Charleston and a nearby development, as well as presentations from the city’s mayor, planners, and local environment and design advocates.  This case study allowed students to analyze the various factors Charleston planners must take into account in order to serve the community’s strong preference to maintain its history through preservation of the city’s general character as well as specific buildings. This included long-term considerations of regional transportation, expansion of historic districts and continued preservation, sustainable community design, and affordable housing.

Students had time to explore the city on their own each evening and enjoyed dinner at local Bowen’s Island Restaurant where they ate boiled oysters and other local fare.