Exciting New Housing Development in West Columbia
West Columbia residents, hold onto your hats! Big changes are on the horizon as plans for a new housing development across from the frequently discussed chicken processing plant are moving forward. The Baker Commercial Properties team, who owns the empty Capitol Square shopping center near the House of Raeford slaughterhouse on Sunset Boulevard/U.S. 378, shared their redevelopment plans with the city’s Planning Commission on Monday.
A New Vision for Capitol Square
If everything goes according to the drawing board, the current shopping center will be demolished to make way for a brand new community layout that will cover about 13 acres. This exciting project includes a stunning four-story living complex that will boast 224 multi-family units. That’s right—more homes for people looking to live and thrive in West Columbia!
But that’s not all. Baker’s plans also feature a 27,000-square-foot grocery store that is still awaiting the reveal of its future tenant. Imagine strolling over to pick up your groceries, right in your neighborhood! Additionally, the proposal outlines 18,000 square feet of retail and/or office space, along with 4,800 square feet of outparcel space for even more shopping options. And let’s not forget about the 5,000-square-foot restaurant space—think of all the delicious dining experiences that could be right around the corner!
Enhancing Community Experience
In their proposal, Baker’s team emphasizes the importance of creating a development that retains the charm of the surrounding neighborhood. They plan to promote pedestrian connectivity and provide retail and commercial services that residents truly desire. Everything will be conveniently located, making it easier for folks to enjoy their community without needing to hop in a car for every little errand.
The project’s preliminary details were first unveiled earlier this year as part of an update to West Columbia’s redevelopment plan. One of the big concerns that residents had was how this development would affect parking in the bustling River District, especially with popular spots like D’s Wings and Savage Craft Ale Works nearby. Thankfully, the updated plans reveal that parking will remain a priority; a 171-spot public parking lot along Leaphart Street is on the table, ensuring ample spaces are available for visitors and residents alike. Overall, the development is expected to include between 550 and 645 off-street parking spaces—a solution for the busy days ahead!
A Gathering Place for the Community
Another fantastic feature of this new development is a large, landscaped open space. This area will sit directly across from D’s and Savage Craft, as well as the pavilion used for the city’s popular Meeting Street Artisan Market. The Capitol Square redevelopment aims to become a central gathering spot for the community, fostering growth and expansion in the Riverfront District and West Columbia.
It’s important to note that the revitalization efforts will honor the existing architectural, cultural, and social context of the surrounding area. It’s not just about building something new; it’s about creating a space that fits harmoniously into the lives of those who live there.
Next Steps for the Project
As part of the redevelopment, two retail buildings are slated for demolition, including the long-standing Chinese restaurant, Eggroll Station. The owners confirmed earlier this summer that they were informed they would need to vacate their building within a year or a year and a half from July.
Excitingly, the Planning Commission recently voted to recommend the requested zoning for the project, paving the way for the West Columbia City Council to take it up for consideration next month. Fingers crossed that everything continues to progress smoothly!
As West Columbia prepares for these exciting changes, it’s clear that big things are in store for residents. From new homes to retailers, the focus is not just on development but on building community. Stay tuned for updates on this transformative project!
