Rosebrock Park Opening Friday

Richard H. Rosebrock Park officially opens 4 p.m. Friday with a dedication ceremony starting at Beech Hill Elementary.

The 76-acre park is located off Bacons Bridge Road, along the banks of the Ashley River. Attendees will take a short shuttle ride over to the park site during Friday's event. 

The park was named for Councilman Richard H. Rosebrock, who has served on council for 18 years and been an advocate for conservation. Rosebrock continues to serve on council. 

“It's a humbling experience and an honor, and I don't know what I've done to merit this kind of attention. My only feeling is that I’ve always loved this place. I've always thought this was a beautiful area, especially the azaleas, the wisteria, the moss hanging from the trees, and the long leaf pines. I've always wanted to keep it beautiful," Rosebrock said in a county press release.

Park amenities include 2.4 miles of trails, two picnic shelters and an outdoor classroom. Council Chairman Larry Hargett called it "a dream come true" for county residents. 

In the future, the park will also have a canoe/kayak launch on the Ashley River and a fishing pier.  

The original park plan was created by Haden Stanziale as part of the County’s Master Plan for Parks and Recreation, with a projected budget of $1,883,000. However, through in-kind donations from various individuals and businesses, and the use of Dorchester County Public Works staff, the park was built with less than $200,000 of public funds.  

Gyro-Trac provided labor and equipment for clearing trails. SCE&G donated treated poles for a pedestrian bridge. Summerville resident Mike Montei led the Ashley Ridge National Honor Society students in clearing the Swamp Fox Trail.  

The future canoe/kayak launch and fishing pier will be provided with funds from US Fish & Wildlife grants through South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and a 25 percent match from the county.