It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Princes Ferry One Hand Sanders Historical Markets gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Mount Pleasant, SC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Best Senior Service Care in Charleston to work for. Christine and Rick are very positive”
“Very Professional and excellent staff.”
“Our family has been using the services of Always Best Care for the past six”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Always Best Care Charleston! I am truly blessed”
“Always Best Care caregivers have been taking care of Dad for over a year. We”
“Like most I was not prepared for the transition to being the responsible one for”
“We have had several senior services for my Mother that we were really not happy”
“Good Afternoon! I hope you're doing well! I wanted you to know that my dad”
“The absolute best caregiving company to work for hands down! Rick and Christine are genuine,”
“This is a great company to work for. All their caregivers are dedicated and caring.”
“These people are lifesavers! We searched for months to find an in-home care agency for”
“Always Best Care has constantly provided quality care services for my wife over many months”
“Couldn’t imagine a better team of people to take care of my loved ones. Rick”
“Rick and Christine, of Always Best Care Charleston, are the exact people I would trust”
“I've known Christine and Ricky Johnson for more than 30 years and would highly recommend”
“I joined Always Best Care as the Director of Operations about 3 months ago. I”
“I have known Christine and Rick for years. Their actions and words repeatedly demonstrate their”
“I couldn't be happier that Ricky and Christine Johnson have joined Always Best Care Senior”
“How fortunate the Charleston community is to have Always Best Care to serve the needs”
“I have known Christine and Rick Johnson both professionally and personally for over 20 years”
“Best Senior Service Care in Charleston to work for. Christine and Rick are very positive and supportive and for that I love my Job.”
“Very Professional and excellent staff.”
“Our family has been using the services of Always Best Care for the past six months and are grateful for the assistance provided to my elderly parents. Initially Rick, one of the owners, met with us along with my parents to closely assess their needs. His warm, friendly manner was helpful in persuading my father to give the assistance a try for two days per week. Rick listened carefully to choose the best match in caregivers, and we could not be more satisfied than we are with our parents' caregiver. She has quickly become essential in their lives and makes a huge difference in whether or not they can remain in their home. Her manner with my parents is professional, but loving, always--- always--- going the extra mile to meet their needs. She is knowledgeable, hard-working, caring, and trusted to do what is in their best interest. We are thankful that someone told us about Always Best Care and ever grateful for our caregiver.”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Always Best Care Charleston! I am truly blessed to be a part of such a wonderful team! Christine and Rick are very dedicated to the work that they are doing, and it shows in everything they do. I have never had the pleasure of working for a company with more passionate and involved owners. They show up for their clients and caregivers in every way possible. They go above and beyond to treat everyone like family and enrich the lives of those around them. I am so grateful to be able to be a part of this journey and cannot wait to see all the great things they will accomplish!”
“Always Best Care caregivers have been taking care of Dad for over a year. We appreciate Christine and Rick very much. Quentin, Ann, Alexus , you and others have been a joy to have in our home and doing whatever needs to be done. You show your care and concern for Dad’s physical and emotional well being and you have become part of our family. I really rely on you when we can’t be home and know Dad is in good hands!!! Keep up the good work!!! Love you all.”
“Like most I was not prepared for the transition to being the responsible one for my Mom. Looking back there were signs of memory decline but after emergency surgery and move to rehab the combative paranoid person my sweet, witty, well read , soft spoken Mom became was shocking. Medication and skilled care were prescribed. Several missteps were made with both. Mom’s dark side resulted in first skilled care company dropping us which I totally understood. I was very straight with Christine and Rick regarding Mom’s recent ‘trips out on the ledge’. Rather than politely taking a pass on us...they spent 2 hours in person with us, 3 cumulative hours on the phone asking me questions and strategizing how to avoid the triggers that put Mom ‘on the ledge’, and 2 twelve hour days observing, testing and tweaking strategies. We are approaching 2 months with no major or reportable incidents. I don’t know how long this again found quality of life will last. I am thankful that one of the nurses referred me to ABC. I am tremendously thankful to be their client for the remainder of this journey.”
“We have had several senior services for my Mother that we were really not happy with, then we found Rick and his staff with Always Best Care. There name says it all ... always the best care. Their staff are warm, caring and assist my Mother seven days a week, and she loves seeing Rick. I couldn't ask for better care & highly recommend them to anyone who needs this type of service.”
“Good Afternoon! I hope you're doing well! I wanted you to know that my dad LOVES Rick and so does Amya!! I can't thank you guys enough for all that you guys are doing, not only for my father but me! Rick went out of his way today and that truly meant a lot :) My dad is so happy and that makes me happy! you guys rock!! thank you!!!”
“The absolute best caregiving company to work for hands down! Rick and Christine are genuine, loving individuals which make them amazing business owners/ bosses. They do not hesitate to make their employees and clients happy. I’m so thankful to have met these amazing people and be apart of their outstanding company.”
“This is a great company to work for. All their caregivers are dedicated and caring.”
“These people are lifesavers! We searched for months to find an in-home care agency for my aging mother. Previous agencies we used had high turnover and repeated no-shows, leaving us scrambling to adjust and worried sick about Covid exposure from a revolving door of caregivers. Christine and her staff came to our rescue and changed all that. Their caregivers were patient, loving, dedicated and RELIABLE. They provide service at the highest level and we would wholeheartedly recommend them to others. My mother deserves the best care and I wouldn't use anyone else.”
“Always Best Care has constantly provided quality care services for my wife over many months of required assistance. The caregivers provide professional services with a loving touch. They have always addressed any questions or concerns immediately with kindness. The administration checks with me, periodically, for a review and any input for improvement. I highly recommend this company.”
“Couldn’t imagine a better team of people to take care of my loved ones. Rick and Christine are the kindest and most genuine people. Their years of work in the customer service industry truly show through the care they provide to others. Aside from the physical and emotional care they provide, which is most important, they are reliable, punctual, trustworthy, and their connections with others last a lifetime. Everyone is family with Rick and Christine.”
“Rick and Christine, of Always Best Care Charleston, are the exact people I would trust and choose to care for my aging loved ones. They are loving, patient, knowledgeable and extremely detail oriented. They have decades of experience in the customer service industry and truly value the relationships with each of their clients.”
“I've known Christine and Ricky Johnson for more than 30 years and would highly recommend their services! They've built businesses from the ground up and this one is / will be a perfect fit for them and their clients. They come from, and have created, a large family where assisting others is part of their everyday lives. Their caring nature, solid work ethic and integrity will be highlighted through Always Best Care Senior Services Charleston and will be to the benefit of clients' loved ones.”
“I joined Always Best Care as the Director of Operations about 3 months ago. I bring 15 years experience in senior living to this brand new non medical home care company. We have put together an excellent team of personal assistant’s and are ready to accept new clients.”
“I have known Christine and Rick for years. Their actions and words repeatedly demonstrate their high expectation of what it takes to nurture a loving family and to be active members of a positive, supportive community. Both clients and employees will benefit from their consistent standard of compassionate honesty & integrity as well as the positive energy they bring to every encounter. I recommend them without reservation.”
“I couldn't be happier that Ricky and Christine Johnson have joined Always Best Care Senior Services. From years of experience in dedicated customer service to the love and care of their own (and extended) family, this is a wonderful fit! The Johnson's tireless work ethic, attention to detail and heart for people should give family members of clients absolute confidence and trust in their care. Bravo!”
“How fortunate the Charleston community is to have Always Best Care to serve the needs of seniors. Rick and Christine Johnson, known for their dedication to helping others, have prayerfully commited to finding and nurturing the best team possible to assist them on this mission. Thank you, Rick and Christine, for offering families peace of mind for the care of loved ones.”
“I have known Christine and Rick Johnson both professionally and personally for over 20 years now. I know them to be caring and loving. I with no reservations would have them care for my 93 year old father, If I still lived in the Charleston area. I can not state a higher praise to their character and integrity than that. Allen Sandridge”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Langdon's Restaurant & Wine Bar or visit Old Village Historic District, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
Request More Information
While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Mount Pleasant, SC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Mount Pleasant, SC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Mount Pleasant, SC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
MOUNT PLEASANT — Mount Pleasant shoppers won’t have to wait long for their latest grocery store option.Aldi — touted as one of the nation’s fastest-growing grocery chains — will officially open its second East Cooper location at 3153 Highway 17 and KOA Campgrounds Road at 9 a.m. on July 17.Known for its quarter-deposit shopping carts and bring-your-own-bag policy, the chain continues to grow its customer base through its no-frills model.Plans for the second location ...
MOUNT PLEASANT — Mount Pleasant shoppers won’t have to wait long for their latest grocery store option.
Aldi — touted as one of the nation’s fastest-growing grocery chains — will officially open its second East Cooper location at 3153 Highway 17 and KOA Campgrounds Road at 9 a.m. on July 17.
Known for its quarter-deposit shopping carts and bring-your-own-bag policy, the chain continues to grow its customer base through its no-frills model.
Plans for the second location was announced about two years ago.
"I am brimming with anticipation for their new store," said Daniel Brownstein, a Mount Pleasant Town Council member, who's been updating residents on the opening date through social media posts.
To mark the grand opening, the Illinois-based grocer will offer swag bags and gift cards to the first 100 customers. Shoppers can also enter a sweepstakes for a $500 gift card throughout opening weekend.
The store will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
This location is Aldi’s seventh in the Charleston region, with others in James Island, North Charleston, Goose Creek, Mount Pleasant and Summerville. Its first area store opened in 2015 off Dorchester Road in a former bowling alley.
Roughly 90 percent of Aldi’s inventory consists of exclusive brands at low prices, including organic meats, fresh produce, sustainable seafood, wine and cheese, frozen foods and home goods.
The chain eliminated single-use plastic bags at the end of 2023, offering customers paper bags for a fee at checkout. Customers’ quarter deposits are returned when grocery carts are returned to the corral.
Founded by the Albrecht family in Germany in 1961, Aldi now operates 2,356 stores across the U.S. The grocer has seen a dramatic increase in foot traffic in recent years — topping 900 million visits in 2024, a 51.2 percent increase from 2019, according to a Grocery Report 2025 by Chicago-based JLL commercial real estate investment firm.
Aldi remained the fastest-growing grocer in 2024, according to the report, adding over 2.3 million square feet of new space with 105 new openings, its second consecutive year in which it opened over 100 new locations.
The Mount Pleasant location supports Aldi’s goal to launch 225 new locations nationwide in 2025 and open 800 stores by the end of 2028.
It's the newest offering in the East Cooper's abundant supermarket lineup that includes Fresh Market, Whole Foods, Publix, Harris Teeter, Trader Joe's, Target and Walmart.
MOUNT PLEASANT — The long-awaited Highway 41 expansion has, at times, been the subject of contentious debate. The topic reared its head once more during the town's transportation committee meeting on June 30.As Charleston County officials report they are close...
MOUNT PLEASANT — The long-awaited Highway 41 expansion has, at times, been the subject of contentious debate. The topic reared its head once more during the town's transportation committee meeting on June 30.
As Charleston County officials report they are close to obtaining the permits needed for construction, Mount Pleasant leaders want to adopt a resolution opposing the inclusion of Laurel Hill Parkway in the plans. The parkway will be a two-lane road that runs through the outskirts of Laurel Hill County Park in Mount Pleasant, an extension of plans to expand S.C. Highway 41.
In an update to Charleston County's council, Alex Owsiak, capital programs manager for the county, said he expected the S.C. Department of Environmental Services and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to fulfill permits for the highway expansion in about 60 days.
He also said construction could begin in the next two years if there were no further delays in permitting the project.
Roughly 7,600 comments were submitted to the county across more than 160 public meetings. The planned configuration for the expansion has evolved in the eight years since the project was announced.
Original plans included widening the entire highway from two lanes to five lanes. That later dropped to four lanes along much of the road and three lanes through the Phillips Community in Mount Pleasant.
The two-lane Laurel Hill Parkway was also approved as part of the final compromise in 2021, connecting Park West Boulevard to Highway 41.
Laurel Hill County Park is one of the largest green spaces in Mount Pleasant. At 745 acres, the park is popular with hikers and cyclists. The oak allée and wide, open meadows set it apart from the other parks in town, many of which feature paved paths, playground equipment, bathrooms and other amenities.
Laurel Hill remains, for the most part, wild. But within the next five years that's poised to change.
Some Mount Pleasant leaders aren't thrilled.
Following the county update last month, the town’s transportation committee discussed a resolution opposing the construction of the parkway, citing concerns with loss of green space and the county’s plan to have Mount Pleasant take over ownership and maintenance of the road once it is complete.
"We need to stand up and say no, we don't agree with the Laurel Hill Parkway portion," said Councilman Daniel Brownstein. "I think that we're all interested in seeking solutions together, but I do think that we need to take a stand for our residents."
Travis Korson of Smart Growth 41, an advocacy organization that opposes the county’s plan for the expansion, told the committee he worried the parkway would cause significant environmental disruptions to the county park and surrounding communities, like the Dunes West neighborhood that abuts the highway.
The committee unanimously recommended that town council adopt a resolution opposing the construction of Laurel Hill Parkway, with one caveat put forth by Councilman Howard Chapman. Chapman said the town and Charleston County should work together to find a solution that will "benefit everybody."
"We need to work with County Council quickly. After eight years, we haven't done that. We need to do it now," Chapman said.
Still, pockets of support for the roadway remain.
Residents from the Phillips Community spoke in favor of keeping Laurel Hill Parkway in the plans for Highway 41, as did representatives from the Historic Charleston Foundation.
"This compromise that was reached came after a lot of public engagement and a long process," said Lisa Jones, director of advocacy for the Historic Charleston Foundation. "At this point in time I think there's a lot of work that needs to be done before that's unraveled."
The current configuration of the highway expansion is nicknamed the "road to compromise," and greatly averted disruptions to the Phillips Community, a settlement community that recently became the county’s first historic district.
Mount Pleasant's full town council will take up the resolution during the regularly scheduled meeting on July 8 at 6 p.m. Meetings are held in the council chambers at town hall, located at 100 Ann Edwards Lane.
MOUNT PLEASANT — A new wine and tapas bar is slated to open inside a highly-visible Mount Pleasant shopping center aiming to fill a gap in the local market for a more elevated wine experience.Owner Lynn Fleer hopes her upscale, intimate concept — Charlotte’s Wine Bar — will eventually add wine tastings, wine dinners, paint-and-sip nights, and possibly a themed singles night.It’s an idea Fleer saw gain popularity in her previous career working at a private country club in Alabama.“We st...
MOUNT PLEASANT — A new wine and tapas bar is slated to open inside a highly-visible Mount Pleasant shopping center aiming to fill a gap in the local market for a more elevated wine experience.
Owner Lynn Fleer hopes her upscale, intimate concept — Charlotte’s Wine Bar — will eventually add wine tastings, wine dinners, paint-and-sip nights, and possibly a themed singles night.
It’s an idea Fleer saw gain popularity in her previous career working at a private country club in Alabama.
“We started out with two people every other Wednesday and it was almost 80 single people coming each week,” she said.
Though the previous tenant — Sheffield's Wine Bar — which closed after less than three years, also focused on wine and tapas, Fleer said her concept for the Shops of Mount Pleasant aims to bring something new to the table.
“My husband and I have traveled internationally on wine trips to France and a lot of places and we developed a big interest and hobby and echoing these places and from talking to wine makers, we found a lot of importers,” Fleer said. “We’re working with great distributors in Charleston who carry amazing wines and we’re learning so much from the reps on what’s new and what people are looking for.”
Charlotte’s Wine Bar will offer globally sourced bottles alongside familiar favorites from Oregon and California. Guests can expect high-end small plates, like fig and prosciutto flatbreads, curated with help from a to-be-named local chef.
The goal is to bring a chic, social vibe to the area different from the Sheffield’s Wine Bar it is replacing.
“Before, it was chill wine barn. This will be an upper-scale trendy vibe with brass accents and leather decor, rugs and art,” Fleer said.
The 2,000-square-foot space will feature a mix of booths, lounging chairs, bar stools, and four-top tables as well as a retail area for take-home bottles, cans and wine accessories.
“To the right will be the retail area, and to the left a cozy seating area with a couch and chairs around a coffee table,” Fleer said.
Charlotte’s Wine Bar will open daily at 11 a.m., an intentional move to offer a spot for lunch or a daytime drink, something Fleer believes is missing locally, despite a number of neighborhood wine bars opening in the Charleston area.
“It’s hard to find a wine bar open before 2 or 3 p.m.,” she said. “If it’s Friday and I’m off for a long weekend, I want somewhere to go earlier in the day.” The bar will offer frosé, mimosas and lighter bites.
The name Charlotte’s has personal meaning —it’s Fleer’s first name, which she said she’s now embracing in a new chapter of her life and career. She also owns Blo Blow Dry Bar in Patriot’s Plaza in Mount Pleasant, and credits her years in hospitality with shaping her customer-first approach.
“We’ve been looking for a location in Charleston for five years. Locations kept falling through—build-outs were too expensive,” Fleer said. “A friend had looked at the space and said it was already set up as a wine bar and it looked perfect. I was a little apprehensive at first knowing this had been a wine bar before, but I like a good challenge.”
Matt Brady, economic development manager for Mount Pleasant, said "high-quality food and beverage continues to do quite well” and "add to the vibrant business and cultural fabric of the town.”
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCSC) - Charleston County officials are considering an alternative plan to improve Highway 41, aiming to minimize environmental impacts while easing traffic congestion in Mount Pleasant neighborhoods.The revised plan includes a new sidewalk stretching along Highway 41 from the Spinx gas station in Wando to the intersection at U.S. Highway 17.Following concerns from those living in the historic Phillips Community, the update also proposes building a new road known as the “Southern Parkway,” whic...
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCSC) - Charleston County officials are considering an alternative plan to improve Highway 41, aiming to minimize environmental impacts while easing traffic congestion in Mount Pleasant neighborhoods.
The revised plan includes a new sidewalk stretching along Highway 41 from the Spinx gas station in Wando to the intersection at U.S. Highway 17.
Following concerns from those living in the historic Phillips Community, the update also proposes building a new road known as the “Southern Parkway,” which would link Highway 41 to Park West Boulevard. The road would provide residents in Park West and Dunes West an additional route in and out of their neighborhoods.
Officials say the road would cut through a wooded section of Laurel Hill County Park, but no trails would be affected. The area selected is currently unused, according to the County. Still, the Town of Mount Pleasant is pushing back.
The Town Council is expected to vote Tuesday on a resolution opposing the use of park land, citing concerns over tree loss, wildlife disruption and overall preservation.
“This is a compromise; no one is really happy with it,” Charleston County Councilman Herbert Sass, who represents District 1, said. “We went through about 13 different alternatives. This is the last alternative. It’s the only way this road works… building a two-lane road along the edge of Laurel Hill Park.”
Sass added that this portion of the project would force the County to clear approximately 10 acres of the 750 total acres of the park and an estimated two acres of wetlands.
The Highway 41 project originated from the 2016 Transportation Sales Tax referendum. Since 2017, Charleston County, Mount Pleasant and other stakeholders have struggled to reach an agreement.
The County says it is currently awaiting final right of way approval from the South Carolina Department of Transportation.
The Mount Pleasant Town Council meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday in the Town of Mount Pleasant Municipal Complex located at 100 Ann Edwards Lane.
Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.
MOUNT PLEASANT — A longtime family-owned seafood market on Shem Creek named in a federal lawsuit this month reached an agreement with the South Carolina Shrimpers Association on July 10.Owned and operated by the Fitch family, Mt. Pleasant Seafood has served th...
MOUNT PLEASANT — A longtime family-owned seafood market on Shem Creek named in a federal lawsuit this month reached an agreement with the South Carolina Shrimpers Association on July 10.
Owned and operated by the Fitch family, Mt. Pleasant Seafood has served the town for over 75 years. The retailer was one of 25 named defendants in a lawsuit filed by the S.C. Shrimpers Association on June 13 that alleges area restaurants are falsely advertising imported shrimp as local or wild-caught.
Gedney Howe, IV, attorney for the S.C. Shrimpers Association said the agreement ends the litigation between the S.C. Shrimpers Association and Mt. Pleasant Seafood, but the exact details of the settlement remain confidential.
The litigation arose following a private research firm's genetic testing study of 44 Charleston-area restaurants. The study, conducted by SeaD Consulting and funded by the Southern Shrimp Alliance, an industry trade organization, alleged the shrimp served at 40 restaurants were imported and likely farm-raised, not a wild-caught product.
Mt. Pleasant Seafood is the second defendant to reach an agreement with the Shrimpers Association.
"We're happy to have this resolution. We've been selling local shrimp since we started. I think we did about 2,500 pounds last month," said Sarah Fitch, vice president of Mount Pleasant Seafood. "Just hoping to keep getting them in and keep selling them, and just happy to keep rolling along."
The seafood market sells both local and imported shrimp. Signage at Mt. Pleasant Seafood previously did not denote whether the shrimp was local or imported, though staff are transparent about its origin if asked, Fitch recently told The Post and Courier.
Going forward, Fitch said the market will be increasing its signage and educating the public as they stop by. On July 11, there were four types of shrimp for sale at the small store on Shem Creek.
"We're just working on finding ways that we could be more clear and ... educating customers about what we've got," Fitch said.
A statement from the South Carolina Shrimpers Association applauded Mt. Pleasant Seafood's "willingness to engage in open dialogue" about labeling their products.
"We are grateful for their support and look forward to continuing to work side-by-side to preserve and promote the South Carolina shrimping industry," the statement from the S.C. Shrimpers Association read.
Mt. Pleasant Seafood's agreement came a week after the owners of a well-known seafood restaurant in Charleston reached a resolution in the lawsuit. Owners for Hyman's Seafood said the restaurant would be committed to transparency and accurately labeling the seafood they serve.
Hyman's Seafood will also be removed from the lawsuit.
Owners of Hyman's Seafood previously told The Post and Courier that an outside marketing team shared social media posts that implied Hyman's was serving local shrimp.
On July 3, the Shrimpers Association announced the update with Hyman’s, whose owners "reaffirmed their commitment to transparency."
"While we understand the concerns raised, we've also listened, learned, and made the decision to do more, because we believe in doing right by our customers, and by our community," owners Victor and Tobias Hyman said in a July 3 press release.
843.535.8387
