A case study of the cost factors associated with the development of Gardner Matthews Plantation, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: an environmentally fragile area

Author

Ricky L. Morris

Date of Award

8-1984

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Planning

Major Professor

George E. Bowen

Committee Members

Kenneth B. Kenny

Abstract

During the past three decades, South Carolina's Barrier Islands have come under considerable development pressure. Increasing urbanization has created local and state concern about the rate, quantity, and quality of island development and about the accompanying side effects of development on a barrier island's environment. Another issue of concern is whether or not such development is beneficial from a public perspective. It was the intent of this thesis to examine both fiscal and environmental issues for one of the more dynamic and renowned barrier islands of South Carolina--Hilton Head.

The thesis first examined environmental planning process theory, development standards theory, and economic/fiscal impact theory. Theory was then compared to practice by conducting a case study of Gardner Matthews, a future Island plantation. Finally, a costs factors assessment for Gardner Matthews was conducted.

Two methods were used to examine Gardner Matthews Plantation. First, a literature review was conducted on the previously mentioned theories. The second method involved the examination of Hilton Head Company documents, public reports, and interviews with public officials and Hilton Head Company employees. Private costs/revenues were derived from Hilton Head Company estimates. Public costs/ revenues were determined by using a per capita multiplier method, multiplier method, and data duplication method.

The study found public revenues as well as private revenues, generated as a result of Gardner Matthews Plantation, to be greater than public or private costs. Economically, all impacts were found to be positive. From an environmental standpoint, the Hilton Head Company needs to incorporate goals and objectives and an environmental analysis method into their development/planning process.

Recommended Citation

Morris, Ricky L., "A case study of the cost factors associated with the development of Gardner Matthews Plantation, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: an environmentally fragile area. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 1984.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/14676