New High-Rise Towers Planned for Columbia

News Summary

Columbia is set to welcome two new high-rise towers as developer Core Spaces announces a $225 million project for students and market-rate renters. The plan includes a 22-story private student dormitory and a 26-story market-rate apartment building, providing around 720 units and ample parking. Community leaders support the project, which aims to invigorate downtown Columbia’s economy. The City Council is reviewing the proposal ahead of a zoning meeting on May 1.

Exciting New High-Rise Towers Planned for Columbia!

Columbia is buzzing with excitement as a Chicago-based developer gears up for a massive $225 million project that promises to reshape the downtown landscape! Core Spaces has unveiled plans for two stunning high-rise towers aimed at providing housing for both students and market-rate renters.

What’s in Store?

The ambitious project will feature a dazzling 22-story private student dormitory along with a towering 26-story market-rate apartment building. These modern digs are set to rise from an undeveloped parking lot located on Main Street between Hampton and Washington streets, an area that’s ripe for development.

This prime location was snapped up by an LLC called “Columbia 1441 Partners” late last year, previously held by Wells Fargo since the 1990s. Now that the site is securely in new hands, the vision for vibrant city living is closer than ever!

Details on the Development

The new apartment complex won’t just be about living space; it will include a spacious parking garage with an impressive total of 1,500 parking spots. This will not only cater to the residents but will also incorporate public parking, making it easier for visitors and locals alike to enjoy downtown Columbia.

As for the number of residents, residents can look forward to approximately 720 to 725 units, which will comfortably house around 2,300 to 2,400 beds. With a total count like that, Columbia’s growing population of students and young professionals will have no shortage of options!

Community Support and Market Trends

Community leaders are already in favor of this development. One prominent supporter is the CEO of the Main Street District, who highlights the positive influence of students on downtown businesses. This project is expected to further invigorate the local economy and bring a new wave of energy to the area.

The market-rate apartment building is set to make a big statement as well, projected to reach a height of 270 feet. That’s an impressive 20 feet taller than the adjacent Wells Fargo building! For context, Columbia’s tallest building, the Capital Center, stands at just under 350 feet, so there’s no doubt these new towers will add a striking visual to the skyline.

Regulatory Considerations

As the City Council weighs the benefits of this ambitious project, they’re also considering new regulations regarding private student dormitories. While there were initial discussions about a total ban on private dorms, the focus is now shifting towards placing specific limits on the number of bedrooms per unit.

The proposed private student dorms will be designed with no more than four bedrooms per unit and will feature a mix of two and three-bedroom options. Importantly, each bedroom will be occupied by just one person, aligning with the city’s regulations for student housing.

Next Steps: What to Expect

Of course, such a significant development will require careful scrutiny. With the demand for housing on the rise and a proposed density of housing units exceeding 700 on less than three acres, this plan will need a special exception from the city. Residents can look forward to the Board of Zoning Appeals reviewing the proposal during their regular meeting on May 1.

As excitement builds for this transformative project, Columbia residents and city leaders alike are eager to see how these high-rises will enhance the urban experience. Keep your eyes peeled for updates, as it looks like Columbia is poised for a bright and bustling future!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Columbia City Council Approves Taller Buildings in Vista
West Columbia and Cayce: Divergent Paths of Development
Historic Columbia Building Set to Transform into Boutique Hotel with Rooftop Bar

Additional Resources

• The State: High-Rise Towers in Columbia
• Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
• Post and Courier: Columbia Student Housing
• Google Search: Columbia Student Housing
• WLTX: Apartment Building Proposed for Downtown Columbia
• Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
• Cola Daily: Fire at Columbia Apartment Complex
• Google News: Columbia Apartment Fire