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Bluffton Blufft n Sun July 15, 2025 • Volume 28, Issue 14 • Complimentary • BlufftonSun.com
Town Releases Bluffton Residence Guide 14A
Recent Drownings Spark 18A Beach Safety Reminders
HARDEEVILLESC.GOV
Major growth planned for Exit 8 in Hardeeville By Sasha Sweeney Editor
Hardeeville is preparing for a transformation at Exit 8 along Interstate 95, where two major developments are planned; a sprawling residential community named Southpoint and Hardee Station, a commercial hub that includes the highly anticipated Buc-ee’s Travel Center. These are set to bring thousands of new residents, travelers and jobs to the rapidly growing Lowcountry community. The scale of the projects is substantial: Southpoint will span more than 360 acres across two phases, bringing more than 14,000 new homes, over 50 businesses, 10 restaurants, multiple hotels and a major grocery store to the region by the early 2030s. Across the interchange, Bucee’s will establish one of its signature large-format convenience stores and gas stations on a 46-acre site approved in late 2024. City officials say these investments mark a significant milestone for Hardeeville, which has experienced exponential growth in recent years.
A growing city looks to expand infrastructure
Located a short drive from Savannah, Bluffton, Beaufort and Hilton Head Island, Hardeeville was recently named the fastest-growing municipality in South Carolina, with an 85% growth rate between 2020 and 2024. Its population jumped from around 7,000 residents to over 13,000 during this period according to the US Census. Local officials believe the Exit 8 corridor offers the perfect setting to accommodate continued growth while also helping the city become a self-sustaining destination. “Our goal is for residents to find their shopping, dining, groceries and retail here, rather than having to drive out of town,” said City Manager Josh Gruber, in an interview with WJCL “This development will help meet those needs.” The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is supporting the plan with a major infrastructure upgrade. A $800 million project is underway
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to widen I-95 through Jasper County and reconfigure both Exit 5 and Exit 8, easing access to the area and improving traffic flow to match expected population and tourism surges. “They’re doing that specifically with the knowledge that Buc-ee’s is going to be coming into that area,” Gruber told WJCL. “And that Buc-ee’s does produce a high volume of traffic.”
HARDEEVILLE CONT. ON PAGE 3A
Shrimp, Watermelon, and Feta Cheese Salad
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