North Charleston residents frustrated by stalled efforts to tackle persistent food deserts

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — North Charleston residents are expressing frustration over the lack of progress in addressing food deserts in their community, a problem that has persisted for years despite efforts by local leaders.

In 2010, the city purchased a plot of land at the corner of Rivers and McMillan with the intention of transforming it into a hub for affordable and healthy grocery options. However, nearly two decades later, the project has yet to materialize, leaving residents questioning the delay.

“I’m just somewhat appalled that they don’t recognize these food deserts if we have ’em here in the Lowcountry,” said Louis Smith, a concerned resident. “Can you imagine them spread throughout America? And that’s, that’s really what we are talking about at the moment.”

READ MORE | “Food deserts complicate RFK Jr.’s call for healthier food stamp purchases.”

Efforts to reach city leaders, including Mayor Reggie Burgess and city council members, for comment were unsuccessful.

Mayor Burgess was reportedly out of town, and no council members responded to inquiries.

The nearest Walmart is over a 45-minute walk from the site, highlighting the community’s limited access to affordable groceries. Despite the setbacks, some residents remain hopeful that solutions will eventually be implemented to address the food desert issue in North Charleston.