News Summary
Columbia is preparing to welcome two new high-rise housing buildings in downtown. Developers propose a $225 million project including a 22-story private dormitory and a 26-story rental building. The Columbia Zoning Board will review this plan on May 1. The project aims to address the rising demand for housing and includes significant parking solutions. Local businesses show optimism amidst concerns about current parking issues. The development could redefine downtown living and enhance its vibrancy.
Exciting New High-Rise Housing Project Coming to Columbia!
Columbia is buzzing with the news that two brand new high-rise housing buildings may soon be gracing the skyline of downtown. Just a stone’s throw from the State House, the Columbia Zoning Board is preparing to review this ambitious project on May 1. So, what’s the scoop on this $225 million plan?
A Glimpse into the Future: What’s Being Proposed?
The driving force behind this spectacular development is Core Spaces, a developer that has already made its mark in the city by transforming the old SCANA building into a trendy student high-rise known as The Hub. This new proposal is certainly ambitious and includes two separate high-rise buildings:
- A towering 22-story structure designed specifically as a private dormitory for college students.
- A striking 26-story building that will be available for general rental housing.
Together, these structures are expected to accommodate up to 725 housing units and provide more than 2,000 beds to meet the rising demand for housing in the area.
Prime Location Awaits!
The project is set to be located on an empty lot adjacent to the Wells Fargo building on Main Street, which is a busy hub in downtown Columbia. This location works double duty: it positions rental units along busy Main Street, while the private student apartments will be conveniently placed alongside Assembly Street. It’s an ideal spot that many believe will enhance the vibrancy of downtown life.
Addressing Concerns: Getting Around
Of course, with great projects come great concerns. Developers are mindful of the potential traffic snags that such a sizable project could create. To alleviate worries, their plans include a parking garage that will boast up to 1,600 parking spaces. This is no ordinary parking garage; it will feature two entrances and exits on opposite streets, which should help manage the flow of vehicles and minimize traffic impact for everyone in the area.
Local Businesses Optimistic but Cautious
Many local business owners along Main Street are cheering for this development. They’re excited about the prospect of increased foot traffic that could breathe new life into their establishments and boost the economic fabric of the community. However, there’s a cautious sentiment among some business owners, who express their concerns about existing parking issues and the necessity of ensuring support for current downtown businesses during this transitional phase. It’s a classic case of balancing progress with harmony.
Meeting Expectations
The Board of Zoning Appeals will dive into the details of this project at their regular meeting on May 1. As Columbia strives to meet the housing needs of local colleges, such as Benedict College, Allen University, USC, and Columbia College, this development could be a game-changer in providing ample living spaces for students and residents alike. However, there are concerns about density, as the project will place over 700 housing units on less than three acres of land.
Finding a Way Forward
To proceed with this eye-catching project, developers will need a special exception from the city because of current zoning regulations. The proposed market-rate apartment building will stand approximately 270 feet tall, which would be around 20 feet taller than the adjacent Wells Fargo building. For perspective, the Capital Center currently holds the title of Columbia’s tallest building at just under 350 feet.
City Council on Alert
Adding a layer of intrigue, the city council is currently mulling over new limitations on private student dorms downtown. In the past, there have even been discussions surrounding a total ban on such establishments. However, the Core Spaces project seems to be designed with compliance in mind, ensuring that no bedroom will be occupied by more than one person, thus keeping within the city’s regulations.
As Columbia gears up for the Zoning Board review, residents are left waiting with bated breath. Will this housing development redefine the downtown experience? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—the future of Columbia just got a little brighter!
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Additional Resources
- WLTX News: Developers Propose New High-Rise Buildings Downtown Columbia
- Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
- ABC 17 News: Columbia High-Rise Apartment Fire
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Development
- Yield Pro: The Standard at Columbia
- Google Search: Columbia high-rise housing
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CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
