COLUMBIA, S.C. — Exciting Changes Ahead for West Columbia
Big news is in the air for residents of West Columbia! A once-vacant shopping center is getting a fresh new look thanks to a recent decision by city officials. Mayor Tem Miles announced that a project to redevelop the Capitol Shopping Center is officially underway. It seems that patience is paying off, as the Baker and Baker group, who purchased the property over a decade ago, is finally ready to turn plans into reality.
What’s Coming to Sunset Boulevard?
The Capitol Shopping Center, which sits conveniently off Sunset Boulevard and just across from the “House of Raeford” chicken plant, is set for a major transformation. The approved plan includes building a stunning four-story structure that will feature 224 multi-family units along with a whopping 18,000 square feet of retail or office space.
The mayor expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that it would perfectly bridge the area between Highway 378 and Meeting Street, helping to enhance ongoing redevelopment efforts. “This will really help to accelerate some of the redevelopment and momentum we have going on,” he mentioned.
New Amenities and Local Flair
As part of the new development, there will be public parking available, which is great news for anyone who has ever struggled to find a place to park in busy shopping areas. The future also holds the promise of a grocery store, which many in the community have expressed a desire for, alongside some retail outparcels to cater to both local and national brands.
The developers have laid out plans that not only prioritize the flow of traffic with pedestrian and vehicular pathways but also aim to beautify the area with more landscaping. City officials have mentioned that a large portion of the retail space will be leased to small local businesses, allowing West Columbia to bolster its community spirit while also welcoming some well-known national retail names.
A Wish List Fulfilled
Mayor Miles pointed out the demand for more grocery options and retail spaces in West Columbia. “Folks in West Columbia have been very, very interested in eager to receive additional grocery stores and retail, and this is delivering upon a request that the public has made,” he said, highlighting the community’s enthusiasm for the project.
What’s Next?
While there’s much buzz around the development, it’s worth noting that, at this point, there’s no official start or completion date set for the project. With city approval secured, many are keen to see how quickly things will move. The future looks bright for West Columbia residents, as changes to the Capitol Shopping Center promise to revitalize the area and provide new amenities that cater to community needs.
Excitement is certainly building as residents look forward to what’s next for their neighborhood! Whether it’s shopping for groceries, dining out, or simply enjoying the newly landscaped spaces, West Columbia is all set to be a more connected and vibrant place to live. Keep your eyes peeled for further developments as they unfold!
