By Nick Johnson
njohnson@scbiznews.com
Published Sept. 24, 2012

The newly renovated Charleston City Market received a 2012 Phoenix Award from the Society of American Travel Writers.

The Charleston City Market received a 2012 Phoenix Award from the Society of American Travel Writers.

The Phoenix Award is presented to individuals and communities that have enhanced a travel experience through conservation, preservation, beautification or environmental efforts.

In 2008, the long-term lease on the historic market was awarded to City Market Preservation Trust LLC, which oversaw the multimillion-dollar renovation project. The finished renovation was revealed to the public in June 2011. Architect Glenn Keyes designed the project and Hightower Construction Co. served as the contractor.

The renovation included brick repointing, roof repair, new lighting, ceiling fans, new restrooms and weather shields in the three open-air buildings. The Phoenix Award comes on the back of this 18-month renovation effort.

“We are extremely proud of this historic renovation, which came in ahead of schedule and under budget,” said Hank Holliday, a principal with City Market Preservation Trust LLC, in a statement.

Erected in 1804, the Charleston City Market exists as one of the oldest public markets in the U.S. and is comprised of four historic buildings that total 32,981 square feet of rentable space. The four-block long market is home to 285 local vendors and artisans.

“This innovative partnership with the City Market Preservation Trust LLC has given us beautifully renovated market buildings which provides for the vendors and patrons. The life of this historic facility is extended and preserved for the future,” Charleston Mayor Joe Riley said in a statement.