From Concept to Corridor

The Road Ahead

High level framework for the development and implentation of the Berkeley County Sacred Corridor.

Definition

The collection and synthesizing of histories, and then making them available in a public format for different age groups and interests is a critical first step in the implementation of the BCSC. This is a limited "as is" tourist experience.

No church/cemetery accommodations.
No assured access to church interiors, parking, or rest room facilities.

Deliverables

Histories need to be complied for:  

The Cooper River history from ca.1665-present day.
Individual church and cemetery histories.

Histories need to be then tailored to specific age groups and interests.(schoolkids vs. adult tour group).

Mobile travel ap is a requirement.

Brochures, etc. needed.

Implications

Support and "buy-in" from the local churches and Berkeley County Tourism.

Definition

Elevated Tourism represents an intentional effort to increase the depth and breadth of the Sacred Corridor offerings. The agency overseeing the initiative will recognize:

The intangible value of ensuring that 100 years from now, South Carolina still looks like South Carolina in the Berkeley County Sacred Corridor.
The tangible economic value of using the only community assets of the Cooper River Historic District, its churches, as the lasting symbol of Berkeley County and its history to attract heritage minded tourists.
The importance of supplementing the churches of the Berkeley County Sacred Corridor with supporting landmarks.

Deliverables

Conceptually:

Staffing and long-term investment required.
Implement a Berkeley County Sacred Corridor visitor center.
Incorporate cooperative marketing with related agencies.
Expand the Sacred Corridor to incorporate a wider collection of historic churches and cemeteries, such as those identified in Phase II.
In concert with the owners of the Sacred Corridor properties, help design and implement Site Master planning concepts.
Similar to any downtown Charleston historic church, any of the religious entities in the Sacred Corridor, in the decades to come, may require financial support.

Implications

Elevated Tourism will require Master Site plans and accompanying investments in several areas. Specifically:

Adequate parking and rest room facilities need to be considered and provided.
Security and access of churches and cemeteries.
Long term sustainability of the churches in the Sacred Corridor.

Definition

With Engaged Tourism, the individual or tour group who visit the churches and cemeteries of the Sacred Corridor will have higher expectations than the more casual tourist. They will expect: 

To be provided a more detailed summary of why the Cooper River Historic District is important.
To be provided information as to why any one place within or near the Sacred Corridor is important.
To have a place to park their car, van, or bus when they arrive at the landmark.
The more Engaged Tourist will need a place to relax, cool-off from the Carolina heat, use a rest room, enjoy a cold drink.
They will be hoping for an emotional experience, to be able to tell friends and neighbors of a meaningful stop.
A trained and professional guide.
Full access to all churches and cemeteries.

Deliverables

More detailed histories need to be complied for:  

The Cooper River history from ca.1665-present day.
Individual church and cemetery histories.
Histories need to be tailored to specific age groups and interests.(schoolkids vs. adult tour group).
Mobile travel ap is a requirement.
Brochures, etc. needed.

Additionally,

Tour guides
Interpretative kiosks/signs
Public events (concerts, guest lecturers, behind the scenes tours)
Points of reflection and prayer
Places/exhibits that focus on historic figures of the area, such as Boston King or PF Stevens/Benjamin Johnson.

Implications

Increased support from churches and Stakeholders.