New conceptual designs for The Shed of Port Royal show how the metal building could become a nautical-themed entertainment venue and community center.
Rough estimates for the renovations range from $200,000 to $500,000, and the work will probably be done in stages, town manager Van Willis said. The outdoor renovations would be a priority, to provide an alternative location for events.
The town bought The Shed for $475,000 in foreclosure last year. It will become the town's welcome center and provide space for new businesses and events such as weddings and nonprofit fundraisers, according to the contract with events manager Beaufort Weddings and Events, a partner of 303 Associates.
Beaufort Weddings and Events will advertise the venue, use a $20,000 grant to make a video for the visitors center and give nonprofit and government groups a 30 percent discount on use of the site, according to the contract. The town and management company would split the profits.
The conceptual renderings were developed by J. K. Tiller Associates Inc. of Bluffton.
Sidewalks, parking and trees would be added on 8th Street. The sidewalks would connect to the future Spanish Moss Trail for walking and biking. The trail is planned to eventually stretch to the Whale Branch River and beyond. In time, 8th Street would also connect to the former Port of Port Royal.
A deck with screening and a stage would be built between 8th Street and The Shed. Decorative sails would add a nautical touch while providing shade for event-goers.
A mural will be painted on the building, a project that Beaufort Weddings and Events agreed to pay for in its contract with the town. An entry courtyard would be added, along with a visitors center.
Plants and trees would be planted along the north and east sides of a triangular grassy area behind the buildings, creating a noise buffer and screening the buildings from view.
"We're obviously trying to reduce the impact of this building on the neighbors," Willis said.
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