Chapin, July 23, 2025
News Summary
The Town of Chapin’s Planning Commission is set to evaluate the Brighton multi-use development project during a special work session on July 22. This substantial proposal covers 161.05 acres and aims to incorporate various housing types, commercial spaces, and green areas to enhance community livability. The development includes planned amenities such as walking trails and parks, as well as a dedicated Brighton Park featuring sports facilities. Community concerns about maintaining the town’s character have been noted, and further approvals from the Chapin Town Council will be necessary before construction can begin.
Chapin to Review Brighton Multi-Use Development Proposal
The Town of Chapin’s Planning Commission will convene for a special work session at 3 p.m. on July 22 to evaluate the Brighton planned development project. This development is strategically located off Columbia Avenue, just near downtown Chapin, and it encompasses a substantial area of 161.05 acres on both sides of Columbia Avenue and Brighton Boulevard.
The proposal for Brighton includes a variety of housing options, such as single-family homes, attached homes, and age-restricted homes geared towards senior living. Additionally, commercial spaces and green areas will be integrated into the design, aiming to enhance community livability. The development will operate under covenants set by various Property Owner’s Associations (POAs) or Homeowner’s Associations (HOAs), which will depend on the specific section of the community. Single-family homes will be managed by an HOA, while townhome residences and commercial areas will fall under the jurisdiction of POAs.
Proposed amenities for the Brighton development include numerous features designed to promote outdoor activity and community interaction, such as walking trails, playgrounds, a dog park, and pocket parks scattered throughout the residential subcommunities dubbed Vanguard, Magnolia, and Renaissance. The total proposal features 382 housing units and includes a dedicated 8.33-acre Brighton Park, which will host facilities such as tennis/pickleball courts and a multi-sports field.
Previously, the site was known as the Chapin Business & Technology Park, constructed in 2013 but left vacant for several years. The Planning Commission has expressed frustration with the lack of clarity in the planning process and has demanded clear documentation reflecting proposed changes to the Brighton project, following four specific meetings focused on the matter this year. Proposed adjustments to the development plan have included increased minimum lot sizes, reduced density, and enhanced amenities, while certain undesirable commercial concepts have been excluded.
Community members have raised concerns about the potential impact of the development on the town’s character, emphasizing the need to maintain the area’s unique appeal as progress is made. No formal actions have been taken by the Planning Commission as of now, and the development will require further support from the Chapin Town Council before it can proceed. If the project receives approval, construction for the first phase could commence as soon as October.
Traffic studies have already been conducted to assess how the Brighton development will affect local traffic dynamics. Overall, the development aims to create a “live-work-play” community, providing a range of residential choices while also supporting local businesses and enhancing communal amenities.
Key Features of Brighton Development
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Total Area | 161.05 acres |
| Proposed Housing Units | 382 |
| Amenities | Walking trails, playgrounds, dog park, pocket parks, Brighton Park with sports facilities |
| Management | HOA for single-family homes, POAs for townhomes and commercial areas |
| Planned Parks | 8.33-acre Brighton Park featuring tennis/pickleball courts and multi-sports field |
FAQ
What is the Brighton development?
The Brighton development is a planned multi-use community in Chapin that will include residential units, commercial spaces, and amenities such as parks and sports facilities.
When will the Planning Commission review the proposal?
The Planning Commission will hold a special work session to discuss the proposal at 3 p.m. on July 22.
What are the proposed amenities in the development?
Planned amenities include walking trails, playgrounds, a dog park, and a Brighton Park with tennis/pickleball courts and a multi-sports field.
How many housing units are proposed in the Brighton development?
The proposal includes a total of 382 housing units.
When could construction on the first phase begin if approved?
If approved, construction on the first phase could begin as early as October.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chapin Business & Technology Park Development Moves Forward
Additional Resources
- WLTX: Chapin Planning Commission Calls Work Session for Brighton Development
- WIS TV: Town Chapin Continues Planning Development
- WLTX: Chapin Development Raises Concerns
- Wikipedia: Urban Planning
- The State: Chapin Development News
- Google Search: 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.
