A ribbon-cutting ceremony recently took place for three new multi-purpose athletic fields at Carolyn Lewis School in Carnes Crossroads. The school and the city of Goose Creek Recreation Department will use the fields.
The fields were paid for by creating a Municipal Improvement District in Carnes Crossroads through Goose Creek’s partnership with Freehold Communities. An agreement between the city and the school district allows Goose Creek Recreation to use the fields when school is not in session.
Goose Creek Recreation has begun using the fields.
Goose Creek Recreation Director Crystal Reed said the new additions are a game-changer.
“The additional green space allows us to expand our athletic leagues, community activities and events to residents in the Carnes Crossroads community and adjacent neighborhoods,” she said. “Movie nights in the Park, youth sports clinics, fitness programs and cultural events are just a few fun ways we hope to continue building a happier and healthier community.”
A joint-use agreement between the city and Berkeley County School District made the fields a reality. The approximately $3 million cost of the fields, which are sodded with Bermuda Grass, was paid by creating a Municipal Improvement District in Carnes Crossroads, the fastest-growing area of Goose Creek.
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Habib was joined by city council members, school district officials, Freehold representatives and Berkeley County Sheriff Duane Lewis.
“Recreation opportunities make good cities great, and our recreation department is second to none,” Habib said. “We are very appreciative of our partnership with the school district and with Carnes Crossroads and Freehold. The results of this partnership will make a real difference for generations of residents. When governmental agencies work together and share their resources, you get a lot more bang for your buck.”
Berkeley County School Superintendent Dr. Anthony Dixon said the fields will be used well by students and recreation participants alike.
“We are very excited to enhance this partnership with the city of Goose Creek,” he said.
Freehold Regional President Gerrit Albert said the fields are a great example of how public and private can work together.
“I want to thank the city and the school district for this opportunity,” Albert said. “We are happy to be in partnership with you.”
