Lexington County: A Growing Hub for New Homes and Residents
Welcome to Lexington County, where things are buzzing with the sound of construction and excitement! With a population expected to increase by nearly 1 million by 2040, this charming part of South Carolina is feeling the heat from a surge of new residents. So, what does this mean for the county and its current residents? Let’s dive in!
Warm Days Ahead
First off, let’s chat about the weather! This week, we’re basking in the glow of abundant sunshine with highs reaching a delightful 83°F and light winds from the north-northwest. As the sun sets, expect it to cool down to a cozy 49°F. Perfect weather for a stroll in the neighborhood or maybe checking out those new developments!
Population Growth on the Rise
As folks flock to Lexington County, many are curious about how the local infrastructure is coping with this booming growth. Traffic has started to feel a bit heavier, and overcrowding is becoming a hot topic among residents. The state’s Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office predicts that the county will grow by almost 8% in the next decade. That’s a lot of new neighbors!
Since the start of 2023, over 5,500 new housing units have either sprung up or gained approval. Can you imagine the hustle and bustle? Most of these new homes are being built in the unincorporated areas of the county, which covers approximately 700 square miles. In fact, over 3,000 new residential units have been approved across around 40 subdivisions this year alone.
What’s Being Built?
Among the most exciting developments are those nearing completion or in the works. There’s a massive 397-lot subdivision near Edmund and a 371-unit development in Gilbert that are set to make a mark. Plus, in a recent County Council meeting, a 94-lot development off Surfwood Court received a thumbs up from officials.
Keeping Growth in Check
Now, it’s not all just building and permits. Local leaders are taking serious steps to manage this growth. Back in June 2024, the County Council introduced some new concurrency policies. Essentially, before a new development gets approved, feedback needs to be gathered from surrounding schools, emergency services, and wastewater providers. This way, new residential communities can comfortably fit into existing infrastructures without overwhelming the systems in place.
Contentious Discussions in Irmo
Our little town of Irmo has also been in the spotlight lately. Residents have voiced concerns about feeling cramped, although town officials assert that the perceived overcrowding is misguided since much of the new construction is happening just outside the town limits. The debate reached a peak with the approval of the controversial Water Walk development, which plans to introduce 550 residential units and 150,000 square feet of commercial space. It’s quite the project, sparking conversations both for and against.
What About Other Towns?
Looking over at Lexington town, there’s been a green light on almost 600 new homes across four developments since the beginning of this year. Similarly, in West Columbia, almost 500 new units have been added, largely due to a major redevelopment project that will transform a vacant shopping center into apartments and retail spaces. Sounds promising, right?
Final Thoughts
As we watch Lexington County evolve and grow, it’s clear there’s a mix of excitement and concern among residents. The landscape is changing, homes are being built, and more families are calling this sunny spot in South Carolina home.
So, whether you’re a longtime resident, a newcomer, or just considering making the move, stay tuned! The transformation of Lexington County is just getting started and promises to be a captivating journey.
