News Summary
Hardeeville, South Carolina, announces the Southpoint project, a 360-acre development that will bring 14,000 homes and numerous businesses by 2032. Featuring retail, dining, and community spaces, it addresses the demand for shopping and aims to accommodate the city’s rapid population growth. Planned to start construction in 2026, the project will double the current population, including affordable housing options and significant traffic improvements on I-95. The project is expected to enhance local job opportunities and overall quality of life for residents.
Hardeeville, South Carolina is set to undergo a transformative development with the unveiling of the Southpoint project, a 360-acre initiative expected to bring approximately 14,000 homes and a multitude of businesses to the area by 2032. Officially announced in June, Southpoint represents one of the largest developments along the I-95 corridor at Exit 8, aiming to accommodate the rapid influx of new residents.
The Southpoint development will feature a mix of retail, dining, and vibrant community spaces, addressing the demand for destination shopping in Hardeeville. The project will include around 50 businesses, 10 restaurants, 3 hotels, and a grocery store. Construction is slated to start in early 2026, with early site work set to commence at the end of 2025, and the development will be completed in two phases—Phase One is expected to wrap up by 2030, and the second phase by 2032.
Located strategically between Bluffton, Hilton Head, Beaufort, Savannah, and Charleston, Southpoint is envisioned as a future gateway to the Lowcountry. According to Bryan McClure of ROI Real Estate, who is overseeing the project, the development is designed to mirror other successful “town center” areas in the Lowcountry, such as Shelter Cove and Harbor Town. It will incorporate pathways and a lake area as its centerpiece, providing community spaces that enhance the overall living experience.
The planning for the Southpoint area has been developing since 2012, reflecting a long process influenced by various infrastructure and growth challenges. Hardeeville officials estimate that the city has experienced an 85% population increase from 2020 to 2024, designating it as the fastest-growing municipality in South Carolina last year. This population growth has accelerated the need for expanded residential and commercial spaces to support new residents.
As part of the Southpoint development, a range of housing options will be offered, including garden-style apartments, condominiums, townhomes, and single-family homes, catering to various income levels and residential needs. The inclusion of standard and workforce housing is vital for promoting a sustainable community.
Notably, a Buc-ee’s travel center is also in development nearby, poised to become a significant draw for travelers and local residents alike. Traffic improvements are set to accompany the Southpoint development, which includes comprehensive work on I-95 and U.S. 278 to enhance traffic flow and safety. Significant upgrades entail widening I-95 from four to six lanes, replacing existing bridges, and enhancing exit ramps to alleviate congestion in the area.
Khizya, the city manager, underscored the essential nature of creating local job opportunities within Hardeeville. The aim is to reduce the commuter burden on residents who currently travel to other cities for work, making the community more self-sufficient and desirable for new inhabitants.
In conclusion, the Southpoint development stands as a beacon of growth and opportunity for Hardeeville, with ambitious plans set in motion to reshape the local landscape by 2032. As new businesses and homes emerge, Hardeeville is positioning itself to better serve a rapidly growing population and enhance the overall quality of life for its residents.
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Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Hardeeville Development
- Wikipedia: Hanahan, South Carolina
- WJCL: Hardeeville Southpoint Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Post and Courier: Fastest Growing City
- Google Search: Hardeeville South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
