Columbia’s Bull Street: From Shadows of the Past to Bright Future
Columbia is buzzing! Once *known for its dark past* as home to a now-defunct insane asylum, the Bull Street district is on the brink of a serious transformation. Thanks to a mix of new residential, commercial, and educational projects, this area is poised to become a lively mixed-use hub. Recent city meetings have laid out exciting plans, and we couldn’t wait to share the details with you!
Exciting Developments Ahead
Just this week, on September 16, city officials gathered to discuss the progress being made in the Bull Street district. Project manager Chandler Cox shared some thrilling news about several upcoming projects that promise to breathe new life into the area. The first of which is Pvolve, a trendy fitness studio making its debut on the ground floor of the Bennet building by early 2025. Along with Pvolve, the famous Southern restaurant Tupelo Honey Cafe will also set up shop in the same location, making it a must-visit for food lovers.
But that’s not all! Coffee aficionados can soon look forward to a new spot as Methodical Coffee has submitted permits to create a space in the First Base Building. And who could forget the arrival of Iron Hill Brewery which opened its doors last year and is now attracting both locals and visitors alike? With Starbucks and REI nearby, it seems like Bull Street is becoming a hotspot!
Where’s the Grocery Store?
During the meeting, city Councilman Tyler Bailey raised an important question everyone is curious about: “What about a grocery store?” According to Cox, it’s on the wishlist. “Long term, we would love for a grocery store to be here. It makes all the sense in the world,” he said. However, it appears that plans for a grocery store and a hotel are still in the works, with no firm commitments just yet.
A Place to Call Home
Alongside commercial development, residential projects are thriving with five current efforts either completed or in progress. Bull Street is zoned for over 3,500 residential units, and about 800 of those are already set up or under construction! Cox mentioned that the Merrill Gardens senior living facility opened its doors to 120 happy residents in 2020, and it’s already at full capacity. Who would’ve guessed seniors are the top buyers of minor league baseball tickets? They’re a lively crowd, for sure!
The Midtown at Bull Street project is swiftly developing and will offer 90 affordable rental units—definitely needed in our community! Leasing for eighteen townhomes is also on the agenda, with plans to welcome residents as soon as this year. The Bennet apartment complex that recently opened boasts 269 units, 90% of which are already leased. An additional parking area for residents is also in the works.
Major Educational Boost
As if that wasn’t enough, the University of South Carolina announced a whopping $300 million investment for a new medical sciences campus. Set to break ground in February, the 320,000-square-foot facility will focus on brain health and infectious diseases, and is expected to be operational by fall 2027. Isn’t it great that higher education is stepping in to enrich the Bull Street area?
Bringing People Together
Community connection is at the forefront of this transformation. With many roads separating Bull Street from the bustling downtown, committee members emphasized the dire need for better biking and walking infrastructure to promote connectivity. They want to ensure that everyone feels welcome and can easily access the district.
From the offices at WestLawn to the new Scout Motors space, it appears that Bull Street may emerge as Columbia’s next great attraction. Event spaces like the Central Energy Event Venue and the historic Parker Annex promise to be popular gathering spots.
In Conclusion
It’s clear that Bull Street is no longer merely a relic of the past but a place bursting with potential and excitement. With residential options for all, delicious dining experiences, and educational opportunities on the way, it’s an excellent time to get to know this growing district. So keep your eyes peeled—Bull Street is transforming right before our eyes!
