Exciting Changes on the Horizon for West Columbia’s Capitol Square!
West Columbia is buzzing with excitement as big plans are in motion for the Capitol Square shopping center. Just this week, the city’s planning commission gave a green light to a major transformation of the 13-acre site which has been somewhat quiet since Jin Jin Chinese Restaurant closed its doors last December—leaving many locals wondering what would come next.
What’s in the Works?
Developer Baker Commercial Properties has outlined a fantastic vision for the area, which will now include a mixed-use community that many residents are eagerly anticipating. The plan features a stunning four-story residential complex with 224 units, along with a generous 27,000-square-foot grocery store. That means we will have a place to grab our groceries and other necessities without having to hop in the car!
But that’s not all! The endeavor will also incorporate additional retail and office spaces, opening doors for new businesses and job opportunities in our community. A major highlight of this redevelopment is the consideration for pedestrians. The project aims to reshape the area into a more walkable environment, complete with public green spaces that invite residents and visitors to explore and enjoy.
Making Room for Parking
As many locals know, parking can often be a hot-button issue in bustling areas. Thankfully, this project has already taken that into account with plans for a 171-space public lot along with approximately 550-645 off-street parking spots. This should help balance the needs of new businesses and keep our beloved local spots—like D’s Wings and Savage Craft Ale Works—supported and thriving.
A Little Controversy
Now, it’s important to mention that Capitol Square sits directly across from the House of Raeford chicken plant, which has faced its fair share of public complaints over the years. While there had been talks about relocating the plant, it’s here to stay—at least for now. So, while we get ready for our new grocery store and shops, the chicken plant will still be doing what it does right next door.
Enhancing Safety for Everyone
In an effort to keep things safe for all those walking around, crosswalks have been added to Meeting Street to help slow down traffic, providing a much-needed buffer for pedestrians. We can only imagine how delightful it will be to stroll through this new vibrant area!
A Broader Trend in West Columbia
The transformation of Capitol Square is part of a larger movement of revitalization in West Columbia. We’ve been keeping an eye on the much-anticipated pedestrian bridge over the Saluda River and the ongoing updates along Highway 1. All these developments are gearing us up for a more connected and lively city.
It’s worth noting that a few nearby establishments have also recently closed their doors. Al’s Upstairs wrapped up its 44-year run late last year, while the property of Eggroll Station has changed hands, prompting its owners to start planning for their next move within the coming year.
What’s Next? Your Voice Matters!
Before any construction begins, the West Columbia City Council will need to review and give the thumbs-up to essential components of the project—like zoning changes and a potential road closure. If all goes according to plan, the Capitol Square redevelopment will be another exciting step in the ongoing transformation of West Columbia.
As we patiently wait for these changes to unfold, there’s a swirl of optimism in the air. The promise of new homes, stores, and a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere has everyone chatting about the future of Capitol Square—and we can’t wait to see all the exciting possibilities come to life!
