West Columbia Reveals Redevelopment Plans for Highway 1

Categories: CharityCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Conceptual image of mixed-use redevelopment in West Columbia

News Summary

West Columbia is set to transform U.S. Highway 1 and Capitol Square with significant redevelopment projects. Plans include converting Capitol Square shopping center into a vibrant mixed-use community, enhancing pedestrian safety, and initiating a ‘road diet’ to improve traffic flow for non-motorized users. The city aims to boost local businesses and property values while creating a more aesthetically pleasing environment. Funding for these initiatives will primarily come from grants, focusing on community engagement and safety enhancements as the city moves forward with these exciting plans.

West Columbia Unveils Exciting Redevelopment Plans for Highway 1 and Capitol Square

West Columbia is gearing up for some significant changes that are set to breathe new life into U.S. Highway 1. The city has turned its focus to the area extending beyond Ninth Street, aiming to revitalize this crucial stretch that connects the Triangle City neighborhood to Interstate 26. With a blend of bold plans and community-centric developments, the goal is to create a vibrant atmosphere that enhances both safety and aesthetic appeal.

Capitol Square Shopping Center Transformation

A major highlight of these redevelopment efforts is the recently approved project for the now-vacant Capitol Square shopping center, located right across from the House of Raeford chicken plant. This ambitious project will transform the existing 13-acre site into a mixed-use community. Imagine a four-story building with 224 new residential units and 18,000 square feet of retail or office space. This is not just about building structures; it’s about creating a lively hub that enhances the community’s spirit.

Extending Revitalization to Highway 1

These plans are an extension of ongoing redevelopment initiatives within the city’s bustling River District, particularly where U.S. 1 crosses the Gervais Street Bridge to downtown Columbia. For over a decade, city leaders have put significant effort into beautifying and making the area more pedestrian-friendly. The city council is considering hiring Conduit Planning to draft revitalization plans for a two-mile section of Highway 1, from Ninth Street all the way to Dreher Road. The focus here will be on enhancing connections to other projects aimed at increasing safety and diversity of transportation options for pedestrians and cyclists.

The ‘Road Diet’ Proposal

Among the exciting proposals is a ‘road diet’ for Meeting Street/U.S. 1 that spans from the Gervais Street bridge to Ninth Street. This plan involves reducing car lanes to make room for parking and bike lanes, making it easier and safer for non-motorists to navigate the area. With an estimated cost of $3.5 million, this project has been in discussion since 2018, with completion aimed for the end of 2026.

State Involvement for Safety Enhancements

In addition, the state Department of Transportation has initiated another project that seeks to improve safety on U.S. 1, especially from Dreher Road to Wren Road. This will include essential upgrades like new medians, crosswalks, and traffic lights, tackling the pressing safety concerns that have arisen from heavy traffic. Current estimates show that about 38,000 vehicles travel this stretch daily.

Plans Still in Early Stages

As it stands, most plans for the Highway 1 redevelopment are still in those early, exciting stages. The focus at this time is on beautification and boosting property values. Funding is expected to come primarily from grants, allowing for extensive development without heavily burdening the local economy.

Enhancing Public Amenities

The redevelopment of Capitol Square aims to address public parking concerns while featuring plans for a grocery store and spaces for local businesses. These developments are all geared toward creating more walkable public spaces that invite residents and visitors alike to explore and enjoy.

A Look to the Future

As the plans for transforming Highway 1 and Capitol Square progress, pedestrian safety measures will be key, especially given the current challenges of limited crosswalks in a heavily trafficked area. However, future alterations are expected to significantly enhance road safety, even while navigating the existing landscape of industrial facilities like the House of Raeford chicken plant.

West Columbia is poised for exciting changes that promise to enhance the overall appeal of the area, ultimately attracting more businesses and residents. This redevelopment journey is not just about infrastructure; it’s about fostering a sense of community and connection in the heart of West Columbia. Stay tuned as these plans unfold!