Nondenominational Church in Ravenel, SC

RAVENEL, S.C. (WCBD) – Ravenel leaders discussed Tuesday night plans for a proposed development that has some community members upset.

The proposed development is the Preserve at Ravenel, and community members voiced their opinions on the development before town council voted on the first reading.

Ravenel neighbors gathered in front of Ravenel Town Hall prior to Tuesday’s council meeting to discuss the proposed Preserve at Ravenel development.

“It’s been a very confusing process to all of us as concerned citizens,” Ravenel resident Melissa Barfield said. “So, now we’re just trying to figure out exactly what is going to happen.”

Some residents worry that the 755-acre development that would be located on Davison Road, and include 350 dwelling units and 25 acres of commercial space, would overwhelm the town’s roads.

“It’s traffic,” Barfield said. “Its traffic is what it is, and that’s our concern. We travel this road every day, not just me, but everybody who lives off or on Davison Road travel it every day and we see the traffic we sit in every morning. And it’s just going to create more.”

For neighbors like Angela Brown who grew up in Ravenel, she fears this development could be the start of transforming her home into a place seemingly unrecognizable.

“We have a history there,” Brown said. “I want to know, ‘What’s in it for us?’ You’re coming through our village. This is our village, and you’re just wanting to force something down our throats. I’m very disappointed that this is happening.”

During the meeting, council voted on the project’s first reading, and it passed unanimously.

After residents received a letter from Ravenel Mayor Stephen Tumbleston early Tuesday stating they would not be allowed to comment on the development at the meeting, they were permitted to do so.

“I just think there’s so many little things that can be changed to make this more palatable to the community,” one Ravenel resident said. “And we would probably say, ‘Yes, okay,’ if some of those changes were implemented. Otherwise, I think it’s a terrible idea.”

Mayor Tumbleston says the town has seen steady growth through the years, and he’s confident if this development is approved, it will be a major benefit to the community.

“Dorchester County using 165 now as a beltway around has had a huge impact on the traffic in our town,” Tumbleston said. “So, why can’t we grow a little bit, too? To reap some of the benefits, where we’re not just a speed bump for everybody else traveling through.”

The second reading will be voted on at next Tuesday’s (3/28) town council meeting.

Olivia Flowers' previously unknown hookup with Thomas Ravenel has been put on blast.

During Thursday's Southern Charm season 9 reunion, Taylor Ann Green took it upon herself to bring the former fling to light. The revelation occurred as Taylor and Austen Kroll were once again in the hot seat for the secret kiss and subsequent cover-up that dominated conversation this season.

After getting read the riot act by Olivia, Taylor commented cryptically, "I'm just saying, Olivia, forgive as you would want to be forgiven."

A perplexed host Andy Cohen asked, "Forgive as you would want to be forgiven?"

After a confused pause, Olivia said, "Go ahead and say it. I already see what you're trying to do. You've been hanging this over my head, I want to see it. Say it."

After some pressing, Taylor, 29, said that she believed Olivia had also betrayed "a friend and a confidante" in former Southern Charm star Kathryn Dennis by hooking up with Kathryn's ex Thomas.

Southern Charm: After Taylor Sobs at Being 'Verbally Abused,' Olivia Dares Austen to 'Go Have Sex with Her'

Thursday night's episode wasn't technically the first time viewers had heard whispers about a hookup between Olivia, 31, and Thomas, 61.

During last year's reunion, Madison LeCroy alluded to funny business between the two — and Taylor had been the one to defend her then-friend at the time.

Olivia explained at this year's reunion that she had approached Taylor after the insinuation by Madison, 33, to thank her for the support — but also to confess the indiscretion.

Olivia explained at this week's reunion: "I was fresh out of college, 20 years old. Dumb, drunken night, one time had a hookup with T-Rav. And I wanted to take it to my grave — like, who wouldn't?"

Taylor's ex Shep Rose chuckled to himself, and Craig Conover grimaced.

Southern Charm's Olivia Flowers Says Taylor Ann Green Made Their Friendship 'Broken': 'I Hate You for That'

Of Taylor, Olivia continued, "She's the only person on Earth I told about that, and here you are now sitting there, trying to use it against me."

"On Earth?" asked Taylor.

Andy, 55, still didn't understand why Taylor was comparing her and Olivia's situations. To that, Olivia said, "I didn't know Kathryn then. I met Kathryn after it happened."

Andy asked, "Was she with Thomas at the time?"

"I have no idea, I do not believe so," said Olivia.

Andy followed up, "Then why is it so bad?"

Olivia just answered, "Because [Taylor's] just been sitting there champing at the bit to use it against me. Not only have you proven yourself to be a s--- friend, you're a s--- human too."

As the women's castmates processed this twist, Andy dismissed them for a break before filming for part 2, airing next Thursday.

The revelation aired nearly a year after Thomas showed his support for Flowers after the death of her brother Conner last February.

After the 32-year-old's death became public, Ravenel paid tribute on Instagram, writing, "RIP Conner Flowers 2/9/1990-1/30/2023 Words can't rightfully describe how rare and remarkable you were. You will be terribly missed by those to whom you were so kind and selfless. My sincerest sympathies to your broken-hearted family."

Olivia Flowers Calls Filming Southern Charm an 'Escape' After Her Brother's Unexpected Death at 32 (Exclusive)

Ravenel was a cast member on Southern Charm for five seasons, starting with its debut in 2014, and he appeared as a guest in season 7.

The former South Carolina state treasurer came into the show with quite a reputation, having served time in federal prison on drug charges that ended his time in office. He continued to provide gossip fodder by impregnating Kathryn during season 1. The volatile on-and-off couple welcomed daughter Kensington "Kensie" Calhoun in March 2014 and son St. Julien Rembert in November 2015.

In April 2018, around the time season 5 began airing, Ravenel was accused of sexual assault, an allegation that quietly went away after a reported settlement. A month later, a second accuser — the children's nanny — came forward and also claimed Ravenel had sexually assaulted her. He was arrested and charged. In September, he entered a guilty plea to third-degree assault and battery in connection to the second allegation, ultimately paying a $500 fine but serving no jail time.

In October 2020, it was confirmed that Ravenel would not return to Southern Charm.

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Part 2 of the Southern Charm season 9 reunion airs Thursday at 8 p.m. ET on NBC, with an uncensored version dropping the next day on Peacock.

RAVENEL, S.C. (WCBD) – Traffic patterns, potholes, speeding, and more – our team is working to find solutions to problems that are driving you crazy on the roads.

Over the past few weeks, News 2 has heard from many of you about problems on the roadways – but one issue had stood out more than the others: the intersection of SC-165 and Highway 17.

Nearly a dozen people who reached out about the intersection in Ravenel called it extremely dangerous. We met with many of those viewers to learn more.

Jack Scarborough said large vehicles, like tractor-trailers, approach the intersection at a high rate of speed, often running the red light and causing accidents that are sometimes deadly.

“When you hear that fire engine, with the siren going, and you can tell that it’s stopping at that intersection, you’re like ‘oh geez, there’s another accident,’ and ‘God, I just hope no one is seriously injured or dead,’” said Scarborough.

Another Ravenel resident, Joan Van Scyoc, said this intersection has worried her family for over a decade.

She said it’s hard to see oncoming traffic when you’re turning north and that the speed limit should be reduced ahead of the signal.

“It’s death-defying, sometimes, to make this turn. Especially now that traffic is increasing quite a bit in the area, and they’re going at a high rate of speed,” said Scyoc.

Both Jack and Joan say having a left turn arrow – turning north onto 165 from 17 – would solve most of the problems.

We took their concerns to the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), and now we’re letting you know that a solution may soon become a reality.

Kelly Moore, Director of Public Engagement for SCDOT said a project is underway that will add a left turn arrow to the northbound 17 left turn at the intersection.

The project is expected to go out for bid this month, and once a contract is awarded, SCDOT will have more information regarding the timeline and cost.

Count on News 2 to keep you updated on the project.

If you have something that drives you crazy on the roads, we want to know about it. Simply email mfee@wcbd.com or fill out the online form by clicking here.

Perched over the Cooper River, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge stands as a remarkable engineering masterpiece and a symbol of connectivity for the vibrant city of Charleston, South Carolina. This cable-stayed bridge gracefully links downtown Charleston to the charming town of Mount Pleasant, serving as the gateway for visitors and locals alike to explore the region's rich history. With a soaring main span stretching an impressive 1,546 feet, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge proudly claims to be the third-longest cable-stayed bridge in the Western Hemisphere. Standing at a height of 573 feet and offering a generous clearance of 187 feet below, it provides an awe-inspiring view of the picturesque surroundings, welcoming travelers with a breathtaking sight.

The construction of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge commenced in 2001, and on July 16, 2005, it was triumphantly opened, solidifying its place in the hearts of Charleston's residents and visitors. However, this iconic bridge is not the first to grace the Cooper River's landscape. The legacy of connectivity dates back to 1929 when the John P. Grace Memorial Bridge, a double cantilever truss bridge, first spanned the river, captivating the world with its daring design and engineering ingenuity.

Today, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is not only an architectural marvel but also a testament to the visionary spirit of Charleston's past and its unwavering commitment to embracing the future. With many hidden gems in Charleston, Ravenel Bridge is one not to miss.

Related: 10 Road Trip Food And Drink Destinations Across The South You Should Sample This Summer

Where Is The Ravenel Bridge Located In Charleston? How Do You Get To It?

The Ravenel Bridge is located over the Cooper River in South Carolina, connecting the cities of Charleston and Mount Pleasant. This bridge is one of the largest in the area, so it's hard to miss when driving to and from the city. Moreover, the Ravenel Bridge in Charleston has a main span of 1,546 feet (471 m), the third longest among cable-stayed bridges in the Western Hemisphere. This only adds to its charm; structurally, it's also quite interesting. For those who want to drive over this iconic landmark, head to Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant, near the Visitor Center. From there, guests can continue their journey over the bridge by car or take a walk along the designated pedestrian walkway.

What makes this bridge unique is that it offers the chance for walking and bike riding across. Not every bridge of this size has that: making it even more worth the adventure.

Here are some of the best hostels in Charleston, South Carolina.

For people wanting to walk the Ravenel Bridge in Charleston, SC, head to the Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant, near the Visitor Center. This is the best starting point for pedestrians.

What Is The History Of The Ravenel Bridge? What Makes It Special?

Before its construction, the first bridge to cross the lower Cooper River opened in 1929, eventually named the John P. Grace Memorial Bridge. After many years of serving the two cities and millions of crossers, the bridge was transformed once again into the then Silas N. Pearman Bridge, opened in 1966 at a cost of $15 million (equivalent to $135.29 million in 2022). This bridge had three lanes and was considered the best for the time. However, over the years, it too met its fate, becoming "obsolete" to many engineers, commuters, and city officials.

Ravenel Bridge crossing between Mount Pleasant and Charleston

Charleston's Battery and White Point Gardens are also history-rich.

Groundbreaking on the Ravenel Bridge occurred in 2001 in Mount Pleasant. This was a "design-build" project, meaning one contract was signed to both design and build the bridge. Therefore, construction could begin even though the design was not yet finalized. That was controversial for many residents and officials, but the project pushed through. By the summer of 2002, the foundations for the towers and piers were in place, and the rock islands were done. The first cables were hung from the bridge in 2004, marking a near-end to the year-long project.

A ceremony was held in March 2005 when the last slab of the deck was added. This bridge is considered an engineering masterpiece and was even featured on the TV show "Extreme Engineering."

This complete guide to Charleston is also worth reading.

Related: The Golden Era Lives On: 10 Gilded-Age Inns In Charleston For A Classic And Elegant Stay

Is It Free To Visit The Ravenel Bridge In Charleston, South Carolina?

The Arthur Ravenel Jr. bridge over the Cooper River in South Carolina, US.

Yes, crossing this bridge is toll-free. Guests are free to enter and exit the bridge as they please, considering it's a major connector between Mount Pleasant and Charleston. Just remember to keep an eye out for traffic and for those walking: stay in the pedestrian area. Have fun!

These Myrtle Beach to Charleston road trip ideas might be worth considering.

Thomas Ravenel threw daggers at his former “Southern Charm” co-star Leva Bonaparte.

“Just watched the latest update on Southern Charm and can’t believe the most boring person on there is still Leva,” the 61-year-old reality star wrote via Twitter Saturday.

It is unclear what prompted Ravenel to come for the “Southern Hospitality” star, 44, but his rants over the show didn’t end there.

Ravenel also made a remark in the comments about the show’s audience, writing that the “viewership went from 1.5 million to 250 k” after he made his exit.

The controversial former politician appears to still be an avid viewer of the South Carolina-based reality show despite leaving the series over five years ago.

Ravenel’s time on the Bravo show came to an end in 2018 after he pleaded guilty to assault and battery.

His nanny at the time, Dawn Ledwell, filed charges in 2015 after Ravenel forcefully tried to kiss her in his home.

The dad of three admitted to his wrongdoing in court at the time, saying, “Your honor, on the night of the incident, I did attempt to kiss her, and in so doing, I grabbed her arm and that was wrong and I am much appreciative of the opportunity to apologize to her in court today.”

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He received a 30-day suspended sentence, a $500 fine and avoided jail time.

Ravenel also underwent a messy custody battle with his ex-girlfriend Kathryn Dennis.

Ravenel — who shares son St. Julien Rembert and daughter Kensington Calhoun with his former co-star — was granted permanent sole custody of their children in May.

In August 2022, Ravenel took to Twitter to slam Bravo after being seemingly displeased over how the network covered the custody battle.

“If I lost all custody of my kids, all the Bravo controlled media would be talking about what a horrible father I am,” the disgraced politician wrote, and quickly deleted, on Twitter at the time.

“Instead, as I have full custody, the narrative is that I’ve bought off the system and Family Court is corrupt.”

He concluded, “I think Bravo is corrupt.”

Ravenel also shares son Jonathan with ex-fiancée Heather Mascoe.