News Summary
The proposed eight-story apartment complex near Bull Street and Elmwood Avenue in Columbia could displace the beloved No Name Deli. As development plans progress, concerns about the deli’s future grow, raising questions about whether it will reopen in the new complex. Community engagement is set to begin, as the Planning Commission prepares to review these significant changes.
Columbia’s No Name Deli Faces Uncertain Future with New Development Plans
The vibrant city of Columbia is buzzing with news about a potential new apartment complex that could change the landscape of the area near Bull Street and Elmwood Avenue. The ambitious plan proposes an impressive eight-story building boasting nearly 300 residential units, and it has stirred both excitement and concern among locals.
Expanded Plans Change the Game
What started as a smaller five-story project has transformed into a much larger development, with the newest proposal detailing a whopping 288 units for rent. While many may cheer the promise of new homes, others are worried about the impact this will have on existing businesses, particularly the beloved No Name Deli.
Deli’s Future in Jeopardy
The No Name Deli, a cherished spot at the corner of Elmwood Avenue and Marion Street, faces the possibility of displacement as the new complex plans to claim its location. The developers, branding themselves as Astral Development from New York, purchased the deli’s plot along with several adjacent properties for $2.125 million back in February 2023.
Currently, the deli can operate as normal until construction begins, but questions linger about whether the establishment will return to its original site once the building is complete. Andy Golubitsky, the developer, envisions a reopened No Name Deli within the new complex, allowing the deli’s fans to enjoy their favorite sandwiches in a revamped setting.
The Development Deal
The total estimated value of this grand project hovers around $50 million, a significant investment that hints at the developer’s intentions to reshape this energetic neighborhood. The proposal for the apartment complex is packed with amenities designed to entice new residents, featuring a gym, swimming pool, dog park, and plenty of open space for leisure activities.
Retail Opportunities on the Ground Floor
Interestingly, the development isn’t only about residential living—nearly 19,000 square feet of space on the ground floor is earmarked for retail or office use. This presents an exciting chance for new businesses to thrive alongside the future community members, creating a vibrant, bustling environment.
New Traffic Trends on the Horizon
The area surrounding Elmwood Avenue is already a hub of activity, with about 44,000 vehicles120-175 vehicle trips during peak hours, which could affect traffic patterns and overall accessibility in the region.
Community Engagement and Planning Commission Review
The Columbia Planning Commission is set to delve into these updated plans during their meeting on March 13, 2025. Before construction kicks off—which is estimated to wrap up by 2028—the developer aims to connect with the local community through events at the development site. This proactive approach seeks to build a sense of familiarity and engagement as changes loom on the horizon.
A New Chapter for No Name Deli
For those who have been fortunate enough to visit the original No Name Deli, the potential closure is undoubtedly bittersweet. Yet, residents can take comfort in knowing that a second No Name Deli location has recently opened in Forest Acres, which opened its doors in October 2024, ensuring that fans of the deli can still enjoy their favorite eats, regardless of what happens at the Bull Street spot.
As the city continues to evolve, Columbia’s vibrant community spirit remains strong. While the future of the No Name Deli hangs in the balance, one thing is for certain: the neighborhood’s story is far from over.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Bull Street and Elmwood Avenue Apartments
- The State: No Name Deli’s Future
- Columbia Business Report: No Name Deli Cuts Ribbon
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia SC
- WISTV: No Name Deli Adds Location
- Google News: No Name Deli
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