Opening of renovated portion of Hampstead Mall celebrated with ribbon-cutting

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Charleston’s Eastside neighborhood now has an updated park space for students and community members to share.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Thursday to celebrate the opening of the southeast quadrant of Hampstead Mall.

“We put a lot of effort into some upgrades with a new amphitheater, new landscaping, new fencing and new gates that we think will be a really good addition to the neighborhood,” said Steve Hamer, the Associate for Facilities Management for the Charleston County School District.

He said contractors spent the last year renovating the park outside of the Early College High School which is still under construction. CCSD leaders shared their excitement about the opportunities the space will hold for future students.

“It’s not just about the beautiful space in this eclectic neighborhood. It’s also about creating an environment that extends the classroom outdoors, encourages curiosity, and fosters a deep love for life-long learning,” said CCSD Superintendent Anita Huggins during the ceremony.

The updated quadrant is a fourth of a rich piece of history in the Eastside neighborhood. Hampstead Mall was established in 1769 and is known as Charleston’s oldest park.

“This area once a bustling hub for the early settlers has transformed through the centuries to the vibrant community space we inaugurate today,” said Keith Grybowski, the Chair for the CCSD Board of Trustees.

When school is out for the day or isn’t in session, the gates of the park are open to the community.

“I used to have to drive about 10-15 minutes downtown to the dog park or go to Hampton Park and this is just one block away so it’s really convenient,” Eastside resident, Gage Garner, told News 2.

CCSD officials said the Early College High School is projected to open late this year or early 2025.