PRESS STATEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
From: Charleston Communities for Cruise Control, Charlestowne Neighborhood Association, Coastal Conservation League, Historic Ansonborough Neighborhood Association, Historic Charleston Foundation, Preservation Society of Charleston, South Carolina Environmental Law Project, Southern Environmental Law Center
May 25, 2022
Contact:
Carrie Agnew, Charleston Communities for Cruise Control, [email protected]
Diane Knich, Coastal Conservation League, [email protected], (843) 530-0211
Winslow Hastie, Historic Charleston Foundation, [email protected], (843) 720-1186
Brian Turner, Preservation Society of Charleston, [email protected], 843.722.4630 ext. 24
Amy Armstrong, South Carolina Environmental Law Project, [email protected], (843) 527-0078
Chris DeScherer, Southern Environmental Law Center, [email protected], (843) 637-1054
Environmental, preservation, and neighborhood groups optimistic about new plans for cruise ships in Charleston but will continue to remain vigilant
Environmental and neighborhood groups are pleased with the State Ports Authority’s decision not to renew its home port contract with Carnival Cruise lines after it expires at the end of 2024 and to withdraw permit applications for a new cruise terminal at Union Pier.
While we are optimistic about what appears to be a new direction for the future of the cruise industry in Charleston, we look forward to learning more about the implications of this decision. We support limited port of call business—especially smaller ships that will have a greater economic impact—as long as the SPA continues to abide by a previous agreement to limit cruise ships in Charleston to 103 visits or fewer each year. We also need more information about whether ships will be docked overnight.
We will continue to advocate for access to shore power for all ships that are equipped to use it. And we look forward to our voices being considered in the larger Union Pier redevelopment project.
Charleston is a unique, world-class historic city, and we will continue to be vigilant in our stewardship.