Controversial Development Proposal Receives Initial Backing in Irmo
In a lively meeting on Tuesday, the Irmo Town Council took the first step toward allowing a hotly debated mixed-use development known as Water Walk to move forward. This proposed project, located right along the picturesque shores of Lake Murray, aims to bring up to 550 residential units to the area, but not without raising some eyebrows.
Balancing Growth and Community Needs
During the meeting, it became abundantly clear that council members are grappling with how to manage growth in Irmo. Many believe that moving ahead with Water Walk might help them maintain some control over future developments—something they’ve deemed critical given the town’s past zoning decisions. Mayor Bill Danielson stated, “I wish I was here on Town Council in 2007, 2008. I would like to think it wouldn’t have happened,” referring to the prior zoning laws that led to a more unrestricted building potential.
The proposed development stretches over 65 acres at the corner of Dreher Shoals Road and S.C. 6, an area that has already drawn considerable attention and opposition from nearby residents. The council has reiterated that the previous zoning could allow up to 700 apartment units to be constructed without any additional approvals, making the current proposal potentially the best way to regulate development in the town.
Concerns at the Forefront
Despite this justification, residents voiced substantial concerns at the meeting. Traffic issues jumped to the forefront, particularly regarding how the additional units would exacerbate congestion on Dreher Shoals Road and other narrow residential streets that would connect with Water Walk. Citizens worried about environmental implications and the adequacy of buffers between the new development and nearby neighborhoods. Another round of concerns centered around the ratio of rental units versus homes for sale, with some residents advocating for a balance closer to 60% homes for purchase.
The layout of Water Walk has also drawn mixed reactions; it plans to feature around 280 single-family homes and townhomes, along with 220 units dedicated to senior living. Additionally, there will be commercial spaces designed to include dining options and retail, together with a charming boutique hotel that will house up to 75 rooms. It’s a comprehensive approach, but many residents remain skeptical.
Negotiating the Future
The council members emphasized that approving this proposal allows them to set specific guidelines for the developers, ensuring elements like a variety of home plans and walking trails. Councilman Erik Sickinger articulated the council’s predicament: “What we’re presented with as a council is the option to leave the zoning as it is, which still means they can still build a significant number of units, or to rezone into a negotiated district, which offers us… the ability to dictate parameters.” It’s about holding the developers accountable and ensuring pleasing aesthetics in this community project.
Road Ahead
The road ahead won’t be entirely smooth, though. A necessary traffic study must be conducted, and the S.C. Department of Transportation will also play a significant role in the approval process, along with other infrastructure-related assessments. Danielson noted that improving the flow of traffic on Dreher Shoals Road has been on the agenda for years, highlighting a common frustration for town officials trying to tackle such issues.
Interestingly, the Planning Commission had initially voted against recommending the rezoning last month. However, they later changed their stance after staff clarified the developers’ commitment to a diversified array of floor plans and a concrete timeline for commercial components. The adaptability of the plan seems essential to gaining further support from the community and local leaders alike.
Ultimately, while many residents have expressed strong disapproval—with one even taking legal action against the town—council members are trying to navigate the tricky waters of development while considering the community’s needs. As Mayor Danielson put it, “I take offense to those kinds of comments,” referring to accusations of collusion with developers. It’s a challenging balance, no doubt, but one that the Irmo Town Council feels is necessary.
This matter promises to return for final approval in the coming month, so stay tuned for what happens next in this developing story.
