Chapin, SC, July 29, 2025
News Summary
The Brighton development in Chapin, SC, proposing around 390 homes, faces delays due to concerns about density and traffic impacts. Developer Mungo Homes awaits town approval to begin construction, which is projected to last 36 months and include community amenities. Planning Commission members express worries about public infrastructure, leading to requests for revised plans and additional documentation.
Chapin, SC: Concerns Over Density and Traffic Continue to Delay Brighton Development
The Brighton development proposed in Chapin, South Carolina, is facing significant delays due to ongoing concerns regarding its density and the impact on existing traffic. The project, which plans to include approximately 390 homes, is located off Columbia Avenue, northeast of Chapin High School, and is easily accessible from Interstate 26.
Members of the Chapin Planning Commission have raised worries about how the development will affect the town’s infrastructure, which currently caters to roughly 2,000 residents. Developer Austin Monts from Mungo Homes has indicated that construction could begin as early as January, provided the town approves the proposal. The construction of this 161-acre project is anticipated to take around 36 months, with completion expected by 2029.
In response to initial feedback, developers have scaled back their plans by removing 14 lots from the eastern section of the development, which was originally intended to be denser. Brighton will feature several community amenities, including interconnected walking trails, pocket parks, playgrounds, fire pits, and designated school bus stops. The project design prioritizes open spaces, with 51% designated as open area on the eastern side.
Additionally, a business and professional district is included in the plans. This area is designed to house restaurants, retail shops, office spaces, and may also accommodate important community services such as a hotel, hospital, or school. It is notable that the business district may connect to the Chapin Business and Technology Park, which has struggled to attract tenants since 2018.
To address parking concerns, the Planning Commission has recommended that developers present a scaled-back version of the Brighton plan for further consideration. Planning documents associated with the project continue to reference an outdated state agency, which has raised eyebrows among commission members. The proposed parking structure includes detached parking to replace attached garages, ensuring that there will be three parking spaces allocated per unit compared to the previously planned two. Additionally, retail spaces will adhere to specific parking requirements based on size and seating capacity, with at least 20 designated visitor parking spaces near recreational areas.
Several concerns have been expressed regarding the public infrastructure’s ability to support the new development. Issues such as sewage systems and emergency services are key factors under scrutiny as the town considers how best to accommodate new residents. In light of these issues, commissioners have also requested detailed landscaping plans and additional documentation to clarify the necessary changes and requirements for the project.
The Brighton development will offer a variety of housing options, some of which will have restrictions in place for buyers aged 55 and older. Home prices for the largest options in this community are expected to exceed $600,000.
A follow-up meeting involving the Planning Commission is scheduled for August, aimed at reviewing further revisions and detailed plans presented by the developers. This meeting will provide a platform for both the commission and the developers to address ongoing concerns and finalize plans for the Brighton development.
Key Features of Brighton Development
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Homes | Approximately 390 |
| Location | Off Columbia Avenue, near Chapin High School |
| Size of Development | 161 acres |
| Construction Timeline | 36 months, completion by 2029 |
| Open Space | 51% open space on the east side |
| Amenities | Walking trails, parks, playgrounds, fire pits |
| Business District | Restaurants, retail, office spaces |
| Age-Restricted Options | Units for buyers aged 55 and older |
| Expected Home Prices | Prices exceeding $600,000 for largest homes |
FAQ
What is the Brighton development project?
The Brighton development is a proposed project in Chapin, SC, planning to build approximately 390 homes along with a business and professional district.
Where is the Brighton property located?
It is located off Columbia Avenue, to the northeast of Chapin High School, and is accessible from Interstate 26.
What amenities will the Brighton development include?
The development plans to feature interconnected walking trails, pocket parks, outdoor amenities, and designated school bus stops.
When is construction expected to begin?
Construction is expected to begin in January, pending town approval. The project is estimated to take 36 months, with completion by 2029.
Are there any age-restricted housing options in Brighton?
Yes, some units in the development will be restricted to buyers aged 55 and older.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chapin Planning Commission Reviews Brighton Community Development
Chapin Residents Voice Concerns About Brighton Housing Development
Chapin to Review Brighton Multi-Use Development Proposal
Chapin Business & Technology Park Development Moves Forward
Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Chapin, South Carolina
- WLTX
- Google Search: Chapin SC development
- WIS TV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chapin
- Post and Courier
- Google News: Chapin development
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
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.
