Final Steel Beam Raised at Bonaire Park, Marking Major Milestone in Transformational Downtown Summerville Development

Member Submission • May 22, 2026

The beam raising ceremony signaled the project’s continued momentum and vision coming to life

SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — Community leaders, elected officials, project partners, and invited guests gathered Thursday morning to celebrate a major construction milestone at Bonaire Park as the final steel beam was signed by attendees and raised into place atop the signature commercial building.



The beam raising ceremony marked a defining moment for the nearly $47 million mixed-use development, which continues to reshape a prominent section of downtown Summerville while honoring the town’s historic character and architectural heritage.


The event featured remarks from current Town of Summerville Mayor Russ Touchberry and former Mayor Ricky Waring, alongside project contractor, Brendan Gilbert, of Gilbert + Lee. Each community stakeholder reflected on the significance of the investment and its long-term impact on the community.


Bonaire Park includes:

  • 23 luxury row homes centered around a pocket park concept
  • 10 bespoke, short-term accommodations, the only  Class A option in Dorchester and Berkeley Counties
  • 11 commercial storefronts
  • A nearly 7,000-square-foot signature restaurant
  • A rooftop bar and activated ground-level dining and gathering spaces

While the project introduces new luxury living, hospitality, and commercial opportunities to downtown Summerville, Bonaire Park was intentionally designed to blend seamlessly into the fabric of the community.

Ownership representatives noted that they identified the potential of Summerville nearly eight years ago and moved forward with the vision after recognizing both the town’s momentum and its deep-rooted sense of community.

The development team behind the project, JJR Development and its partners, drew upon more than three decades of experience working within Charleston’s historic district to create a project that respects architectural tradition while introducing a modern, walkable destination.


Developers also expressed appreciation for the collaboration and support received throughout the process from municipal staff, elected officials, and public safety personnel.


Construction at Bonaire Park continues to progress, with additional milestones anticipated throughout the coming months.

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