Mini Golf and New Retail Move Forward on James Island After Partial Approval
A proposed mixed-use development featuring miniature golf, retail space and offices has taken an important step forward on James Island—but the entire project has not been approved.
Charleston’s Design Review Board granted conceptual approval to the proposed miniature-golf course and two-story retail building planned for 1614 Grimball Road near Folly Road. The board deferred a separate parking garage and office building, sending that portion of the development back to the design team for additional work.
What Is Proposed for the James Island Property?
Plans presented to the city include three primary components:
- A miniature-golf course
- A two-story anchor and retail building
- A separate parking garage containing office space
The property is located near the intersection of Folly and Grimball roads in Charleston City Council District 12. City documents identify Scan Assets as the property owner and MPS/Jennifer Johnson as the applicant.
The miniature-golf component gives the proposal an entertainment-focused anchor, while the accompanying retail building could introduce additional shopping, dining or service options to the area. Specific tenants have not been announced.
What Did the Design Review Board Approve?
The board granted conceptual approval to the miniature-golf course and retail building, subject to staff recommendations.
Conceptual approval is an early design milestone. It allows those components to advance toward preliminary design review, but it is not the same as final approval or permission to immediately begin construction.
The parking garage and office building did not advance with the other portions of the proposal.
Board members asked the development team to redesign that structure so it fits the surrounding area more effectively. They also requested another review of the project’s parking configuration and accessibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Residents Raise Traffic and Development Concerns
The proposal has generated mixed reactions from James Island residents.
Supporters could see the miniature-golf course and retail space as new options for date nights, birthday celebrations and family entertainment without leaving the island.
Opponents have raised concerns about traffic and whether the Folly Road and Grimball Road area can comfortably accommodate another commercial development. City planning officials have argued that providing more services and entertainment closer to residents could reduce the number of trips people make outside their immediate community.
What Happens Next?
The miniature-golf and retail portions can move toward preliminary design approval.
The parking garage and office component must return to the Design Review Board after revisions are completed. Additional municipal reviews and approvals would still be needed before the larger development could move toward construction.
No groundbreaking, construction or opening date has been announced.
For now, the most accurate takeaway is that mini golf and retail have moved forward—but the complete James Island development has not received final approval.
