Exciting New Housing Development Planned in West Columbia
Residents of West Columbia have something to look forward to as plans for a brand-new housing development are moving full steam ahead across from the local chicken processing plant that has often been a source of complaint. Last Monday, Baker Commercial Properties unveiled their vision for the vacant Capitol Square shopping center, which sits just across the street from the House of Raeford slaughterhouse on Sunset Boulevard/U.S. 378. This redevelopment is set to transform the area and potentially bring some much-needed improvements to the community.
The Vision: A Four-Story Living Complex
Baker Commercial Properties proposes to raze the existing shopping center and make way for a sprawling 13-acre site that will feature a four-story living complex boasting 224 multi-family units. That’s right—new homes are on the horizon! But there’s more in store for the community than just housing. The plans also include a sizable 27,000-square-foot grocery store, though the specific tenant has yet to be announced. Additionally, the redevelopment is expected to include 18,000 square feet designated for retail or office space and four outparcels each offering 4,800 square feet for retail opportunities.
Dining and Shopping Options Galore
Food lovers can also rejoice, as a 5,000-square-foot restaurant space is in the works, giving residents and visitors a fresh dining option. Baker’s proposal emphasizes that this development is designed to enhance the character of the surrounding neighborhood while promoting pedestrian connectivity and providing the kind of retail and commercial services the community is craving.
A Look at Parking Plans
One of the key concerns often raised about significant developments in the area is parking. The Capitol Square shopping center currently offers around 200 public parking spots, essential for visitors heading to nearby popular spots like D’s Wings and Savage Craft Ale Works. However, it looks like the new plans will alleviate parking concerns as well. The development includes a 171-space public parking lot along Leaphart Street and will provide between 550 and 645 off-street parking spaces overall. This means that while visitors to the River District might see changes, they won’t find themselves at a loss for parking options.
Landscaped Open Spaces for Community Gathering
Another exciting aspect of the development is the promise of a large landscaped open space right across from local favorites like D’s Wings and the Meeting Street Artisan Market pavilion. This area is designed to serve as a gathering place, fostering community spirit and further growth in West Columbia’s Riverfront District.
What About Existing Businesses?
With change often comes the end of an era, and local favorites such as the Eggroll Station, a Chinese restaurant that has been a staple since 1990, will see their building torn down as part of the redevelopment. The owners have already been informed they have approximately a year to a year and a half to vacate the premises. While it’s always tough to say goodbye to long-standing establishments, the hope is that the new development brings new opportunities and conveniences to the area.
Next Steps in the Process
Moving forward, the West Columbia Planning Commission has taken a vote to recommend the requested zoning changes necessary for the project. The West Columbia City Council is set to deliberate on this proposal next month, which will mark another significant step in this transformative project.
As plans continue to unfold, West Columbia residents remain hopeful and excited about the potential changes. With new housing coming in alongside much-needed retail and dining options, there’s a sense of optimism in the air for the future of this community.
