Equitable Settlement Reach for Old Chicora Elementary Renovation

Press Release

Metanoia, in partnership with the City of North Charleston, will restart the renovation of the former Chicora Graded School soon; after reaching a satisfactory insurance settlement related to a fire in 2020 that damaged the building and  significantly delayed the project. With the settlement, demolition work is scheduled on fire damaged portions of Old Chicora in the coming weeks.  

Metanoia’s mission is to amplify opportunities for a thriving community with families in Chicora and surrounding historically Black neighborhoods in the southernmost area of North Charleston. Old Chicora is a unique asset that served a vital role in the local community for more than seven decades. Metanoia plans to honor the historical legacy of Old Chicora by building opportunities for educational development, community gatherings and events, and arts/culture within the neighborhood.

“We are excited to continue working on this project and work with the community to clarify neighborhood aspirations and identify the opportunities Old Chicora will provide families living in  the neighborhood,” said Bill Stanfield, CEO of Metanoia. “As initial demolition takes place, we will have ongoing conversations with community members about opportunities and programs desired – using that feedback to finalize partnerships. Thank you to the legal team of Jamie Kahn and Mark Joye, the City of North Charleston, and Mayor Summey along with investors and partners for your help and support throughout the process.”

When completed, Old Chicora will center community interests that benefit youth and families that live in the neighboring communities in the southern half of North Charleston while attracting  investment toward the community’s abiding strengths. The new facility will complement  Metanoia’s overall asset-based community development efforts that develop next-generation leaders, builds quality affordable housing, and facilitates greater economic mobility.

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