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New Mixed-Use Apartment Building Proposed for Columbia

Rendering of the proposed mixed-use apartment building in Columbia

News Summary

Columbia is set to undergo significant changes with the proposed development of an eight-story mixed-use apartment building at Bull and Elmwood Avenue. This ambitious project will feature 288 apartment units and various amenities aimed at providing modern living for residents. Local leaders and residents are excited about the potential benefits, including community engagement activities even before construction begins.

Exciting Developments on the Horizon for Downtown Columbia!

Columbia is abuzz with news of a thrilling new proposal that could reshape the downtown landscape! At the intersection of Bull and Elmwood Avenue, a grand vision is taking shape with plans for a dazzling **eight-story mixed-use apartment building**. This ambitious project is set to include a whopping **288 apartment units**, marking a major step forward in meeting the growing housing demand in the area.

Change is Coming to Bull and Elmwood

The new apartment complex is poised to extend its reach from Bull Street right through to Elmwood Avenue, and there are currently several buildings standing in its way. Among them is the beloved **No Name Deli**, a staple of the community that has proudly served customers for an impressive **40 years**. Though the deli’s owners acknowledge the need for progress, they’ve expressed heartfelt gratitude to their loyal patrons and a desire to find a new home nearby, preserving their “roots” in the community.

A Home for Everyone!

Designed with modern living in mind, the proposed complex will offer more than just housing. Exciting amenities are on the docket, including a **fitness center, swimming pool, dog park**, and various recreational areas. Plus, residents will have access to a **376-space parking garage** and plenty of vibrant **retail and office spaces** to browse and enjoy right at their doorstep.

With the location conveniently situated near the bustling **Bull Street development**, which features the popular **Fireflies stadium** and a variety of local businesses, developers believe this project is tailor-made for **young professionals, recent graduates**, and families in search of a lively, walkable environment.

Support from Local Leaders

Richland County Councilman Don Weaver has emphasized the community need for additional housing, especially considering the influx of development in the Bull Street area, which also houses a new **USC medical school**. The Planning Commission of Columbia is set to discuss this proposal at their upcoming meeting on Thursday at **4 p.m.**, and many residents are looking forward to hearing more about this transformative plan.

Adapting to Community Feedback

After the initial announcement, the proposal has expanded impressively from **200 apartments to a striking 288 units**. However, the amount of retail space has slightly decreased from **30,000 square feet to 25,000 square feet**, all while keeping community needs front and center. The developer, **Astral Development of New York**, recently acquired the property for **$2.125 million** this past February, underscoring a serious commitment to revitalizing the area.

Building Community Before Construction Begins

In a unique twist, there’s a **new community engagement plan** set to kick off before construction even starts. Expect to see a variety of fun activities aimed at activating the surrounding area! Think art exhibits, delicious food and beverage events, and even the potential for a concert series to bring neighbors together and create excitement around the upcoming changes.

Smart Planning for Traffic Flow

The project is expected to accommodate the existing infrastructure, as traffic studies indicate that around **44,000 vehicles** traverse Elmwood Avenue daily, while Bull Street sees over **27,000 vehicles** use it. Developers anticipate that the new complex will generate an additional **120-175 vehicle trips** during peak hours, which the city is prepared to handle.

Looking Forward

As Columbia’s residents contemplate these exciting plans, many are hopeful about the positive impact this project could have on their community. The anticipated completion date is hinged on a timeline that stretches into **2028**, with several phases of engagement leading up to groundbreaking. It’s a thrilling time for downtown Columbia, and we can’t wait to see how this story unfolds!