Project 3500 Affordable Housing Charrette Vince Graham Lecture

This City of Charleston, SC meeting on March 25, 2026, featured a lecture by developer Vince Graham focused on affordable housing and urban design principles. Graham discussed his experience with walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods, emphasizing the importance of public realm investments such as streets, sidewalks, and green spaces to foster community and enhance property values. He highlighted past projects like I'on and Morris Square, noting challenges with zoning, fire codes, and infrastructure that impact development. The discussion included strategies for integrating affordable housing through accessory dwelling units and lock-out apartments, as well as the need for zoning reforms to enable denser, traditional neighborhood designs. The meeting also touched on stormwater management and flood mitigation in new developments. While no specific contract awards or procurement actions were detailed, the conversation underscored the role of public-private partnerships and regulatory adjustments in facilitating future housing projects in Charleston.