Exciting News for Hilton Head: Town Acquires Iconic Aunt Chilada’s Property for Redevelopment

Exciting Changes Ahead for Hilton Head: Town Acquires Aunt Chilada’s!

Hey there, Hilton Head residents! If you’ve been missing the buzzing vibes of Aunt Chilada’s, we’ve got some exciting news for you. Last Friday, the town officially announced that it has purchased the beloved Aunt Chilada’s, a restaurant that has served up tasty dishes for a whopping 36 years on Pope Avenue before closing its doors this past September. This iconic spot may just be the start of something new for the town, and here’s what you need to know!

Digging into the Deal

So, what’s the scoop on this property purchase? According to the town’s press release, this acquisition was made possible through tax increment financing (TIF), which is generated from the Pope Avenue TIF district. This funding is meant to support redevelopment and improvements in the area. For those keeping track, Hilton Head has four TIF districts overall, and the Pope/Palmetto Area stretches from Bay Pines Drive all the way to South Forest Beach Drive. Talk about prime location!

Title and Future Plans

Now, here’s the million-dollar question: what will happen to the former Aunt Chilada’s spot? According to Heather Woolwine, the town’s communications director, they are still in the planning stages and no final decisions have been made just yet. But with its super-close proximity to Coligny Beach and the charming Lowcountry Celebration Park, it’s looking like the property could be transformed into a public parking area. Now that’s an idea that could put a smile on everyone’s face—especially those who’ve ever tried to find parking along our beautiful beaches!

The Paid Parking Plans

In case you missed it, back in October, the town council approved a resolution set to bring paid parking to town-owned beach parks, with the exception of Coligny Beach Park and the Pope Avenue business district. This includes two prime locations: the former Wild Wing Cafe and, of course, Aunt Chilada’s. By March 2025, these spots are likely going to be converted into additional parking lots, but worry not, they’re expected to be exempt from parking fees!

Investment for More Spots

To sweeten the deal, the investment for both properties comes to nearly $7 million combined! This hefty sum aims to create between 225 and 270 additional free parking spots—because who isn’t tired of cracking the code for parking at the beach?

Breaking Down the Numbers

Now let’s break it down for you, our fellow citizens. The town spent about $2.9 million on the 1.29-acre Aunt Chilada’s property, which breaks down to approximately $51.60 per square foot. The Wild Wing Cafe property, which is larger at 1.8 acres, cost about $4 million or roughly $51.00 per square foot. If you’re wondering, the town owns a staggering 1,950 acres across 327 properties. That’s a lot of space to keep things moving and grooving on our beautiful island!

What’s Next for Hilton Head?

As everything unfolds, residents are eager to see how the town will utilize Aunt Chilada’s property. Will it be a bustling parking lot? Something more exciting? Only time will tell! But one thing’s for sure—Hilton Head is all about improving and enhancing the island experience for both locals and visitors alike.

So, stick around and keep your eyes peeled as we await more news regarding this fantastic update from Hilton Head! Change is in the air, and we’re here for it!