Irmo Town Council Considers Controversial Water Walk Development Amid Community Concerns

Irmo Town Council Faces Tough Choices Over Water Walk Development

In the quaint town of Irmo, South Carolina, a significant decision loomed large over Tuesday’s Town Council meeting. The council members found themselves in a bit of a pickle as they debated the future of a controversial development project known as Water Walk. This mixed-use residential and commercial development, proposed to sit along the picturesque shores of Lake Murray, could bring up to 550 units to the area. Many locals showed up to voice their concerns, fearing the impact this project could have on their beloved neighborhood.

Growth Control or Unchecked Development?

With a hefty 65-acre proposal on the table at 2947 Dreher Shoals Road/S.C. 6, the Town Council initially approved the project in a bid to take control of Irmo’s steady growth. Council members insisted that although they recognized the pushback from residents, the reality was that if they didn’t step in now, developers could potentially build up to 700 apartment units without any oversight from the town.

“I wish I was here on Town Council in 2007, 2008. I would like to think it wouldn’t have happened,” Mayor Bill Danielson expressed, reflecting on how past zoning decisions have left the current council with the challenging task at hand.

Voices of Concern from the Community

Residents filled the room with worry, raising pressing issues like traffic congestion on Dreher Shoals Road, which is already feeling strained, alongside narrower streets feeding into the new development. Environmental hazards were also on their minds, specifically the adequacy of planned green spaces and the proposed ratio of rental units compared to homes for sale.

The Water Walk blueprint includes plans for approximately 280 single-family homes and townhomes, 220 senior-living units, and some commercially attractive spaces, such as dining and retail options, plus a cozy boutique hotel with a maximum of 75 rooms. While up to 145 of these homes might be rentals, many locals aren’t thrilled about the prospect. In fact, one resident even tried to legally challenge the town’s approval process last month but met with no success.

The Balancing Act

Despite heavy opposition, the council felt a glimmer of optimism. They emphasized the importance of retaining some control over the development process. By moving forward with the Water Walk project, the town could negotiate specifics that would benefit Irmo and potentially ease some development burdens.

According to Town Councilman Erik Sickinger, “what we’re presented with as a council is the option to leave the zoning as it is… or to rezone into a negotiated district, which offers us the ability to dictate parameters.” This clarity is crucial, especially as the developers committed to incorporating various house plans, recreational walking trails, and respecting the natural landscape leading down towards Lake Murray.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

Before the plan can be finalized, there are a still a few more hurdles to jump through. Mayor Danielson shared that further assessments, like a traffic study and approval from the S.C. Department of Transportation, will be necessary, alongside additional infrastructure evaluations. Interestingly, the mayor pointed out that the project might even lead to the long-discussed expansion of Dreher Shoals Road.

The Planning Commission initially hesitated to recommend the project, but following a reconvening and reassurance about the developer’s commitments, they changed course. However, concerns about the ratio of rental homes to those for sale continue to echo in the chambers. Councilwoman Phyllis Coleman pushed for a 60-40 ratio favoring sales, but town staff indicated flexibility is limited.

A Call for Unity

In closing, Mayor Danielson addressed some of the more heated accusations coming from residents. Claims of collusion between town leaders and developers were met with frustration. “I take offense to those kinds of comments,” he stated, firmly emphasizing that their intentions are genuinely rooted in what’s best for the community.

As Irmo steps tentatively forward with the Water Walk project, the council and residents alike are left wondering what the future holds. Will this hefty plan strengthen growth control, or will it lead to the very challenges they’re striving to address? Only time will tell.