Irmo Planning Commission Approves Water Walk Development Amidst Community Concerns

Irmo Moves Forward with Controversial Lake Murray Development

In Irmo, excitement and trepidation fill the air as plans for a proposed development on the scenic shores of Lake Murray continue to take shape. After a series of tense meetings, public pushback, an initial denial from the town, and a failed legal challenge regarding the project’s approval process, the Water Walk development is making strides. Recently, the Irmo Planning Commission unanimously recommended that the developers’ application to rezone 65 acres for the project be approved. This recommendation paves the way for the Town Council to take the zoning issue into consideration next week.

A Glimpse at the Proposed Development

Located at 2947 Dreher Shoals Road/S.C. 6, the development is set to feature around 280 single-family homes and townhomes, plus 220 senior-living units. Not just a residential haven, Water Walk aims to incorporate dining and retail options alongside a boutique hotel with a maximum of 75 rooms. This ambitious project comes courtesy of Material Capital Partners from Charleston and has stirred quite the conversation among local residents since it was first revealed earlier this summer.

Community Concerns and Initial Denial

The excitement surrounding Water Walk has been met with considerable concern from the community. At the Planning Commission’s meeting back in August, residents packed the room to voice worries about potential traffic congestion and the need for protective buffers between new constructions and existing neighborhoods. Following the commission’s initial refusal to approve rezoning, an Irmo resident even took the town to court in an attempt to halt any further discussions on the project. Ultimately, the judge ruled the resident did not provide sufficient justification for court intervention, allowing the project to come back to the table.

New Plan Meets Town Standards

This past Monday, a noticeably smaller crowd gathered as the developers presented their amended proposal, which town staff now recommends for approval. During the public comment section, several individuals reiterated their earlier concerns, expressing frustration at the quick turnaround of the project’s resubmission. Nevertheless, Assistant Town Administrator Doug Polen assured attendees that the new timeline aligns with both town ordinances and state laws.

The developers made significant changes to their plan, which include demonstrating a variety of floor plans to meet the requirements for reduced lot sizes. In Irmo, developers can propose smaller lots by making monetary contributions to the town while also enhancing their plan with specific amenities. For this project, the developers have committed to starting the commercial elements within two years after residential work begins and providing annual updates to the town on their progress.

Benefits and Amenities Offered

The Water Walk project promises strong protections along the property lines as well as amenities like walking trails, a clubhouse, a swimming pool, and beautifully lined streets with trees. “You can build over 700 apartments on this property right now, today,” Doug Polen pointed out. “We feel that what the applicant is bringing us with closer to 500 units is much preferable.” The mix of residential options could please both rental seekers and those looking to buy.

Developer Commitments and Future Planning

The developers have reassured the community that they are committed to planting roots in the area responsibly and with quality in mind. They acknowledge prior concerns about leveling out the topography, promising that the natural landscape will be respected and maintained. They also shared their efforts to attract well-known businesses for the commercial district. With names like Blue Marlin, Motor Supply Company Bistro, and a local coffee shop already in discussions, there’s a buzz about the types of establishments that could soon call Irmo home.

As the project moves forward, both supporters and skeptics alike will be watching closely. “It’s important for the town to grow the right way,” said David Craig from Material Capital Partners. And indeed, the upcoming Town Council meeting could very well shape the future of Water Walk and Irmo itself.