News Summary
Cayce, South Carolina is experiencing significant residential development with five new projects addressing affordability and revitalization. Notable projects include Hattie’s Crossing, bringing twelve homes to the site of the former Cayce Grammar School, and Dunbar Village, which will add 52 attached homes on the grounds of Busbee Middle School. With growing needs for affordable housing, the community aims to balance growth with its small-town charm, all amidst mixed reactions from residents regarding the pace of development.
Cayce, S.C. Sees Surge in Residential Development Amidst Community Concerns
Cayce, South Carolina is currently witnessing a surge in residential development with five new projects aimed at meeting the demands for affordability, retirement living, and revitalization. This expansion is noteworthy as it comes at a time when the community is balancing growth with the preservation of its small-town charm.
Among the prominent developments is Hattie’s Crossing, which will replace the site of the former Cayce Grammar School. This project aims to introduce twelve new homes to the area, recognizing the legacy of Miss Hattie Derrenbacher, the first teacher in Cayce. The homes in Hattie’s Crossing will feature sizes ranging from 1,200 to 1,600 square feet and include amenities such as sidewalks and homeowners’ associations to ensure proper upkeep.
Another significant project, Dunbar Village, is set to develop on the grounds of the former Busbee Middle School. This project will introduce 52 attached homes to the community, further adding to Cayce’s residential options. Additionally, the Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community is expanding to incorporate 14 new independent-living cottages for seniors at the intersection of 9th Street and F Avenue.
In light of affordable housing needs, the community will also benefit from the construction of three homes by Habitat for Humanity, alongside two additional homes on Benedict Street, directly addressing the growing need for affordable living spaces in the area.
Community Perspectives and Concerns
Cayce City Council members have expressed that these developments are crucial for tackling the limited housing market in the city. For instance, Councilman Byron Thomas noted that the growth in housing also paves the way for new opportunities in retail and dining, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
However, not all community members share this optimistic view. Several residents have raised concerns about the rapid pace of change, fearing that it may erode the small-town feel of the community. One resident highlighted a particular worry about losing the tranquility that previously characterized Cayce.
In response to these concerns, Mayor Elise Parton has assured residents that the goal of the new housing projects is inclusivity, catering to various price points and welcoming all community members.
Current Housing Market Dynamics
Data reveals that Cayce has seen limited new building permits in comparison to neighboring West Columbia, resulting in a relatively slower pace of development. Despite this, the demand for housing is evident, as all three Habitat for Humanity homes have already been sold, while interest in Dunbar Village is seen with only one home currently under contract.
To better accommodate the anticipated growth, city leaders are planning to undertake a comprehensive update of the zoning codes—an initiative that marks the first revision in over a decade. An allocation of $195,000 from pandemic relief funds has been designated for hiring an independent contractor to manage this zoning ordinance update.
Moreover, Councilman Hunter Sox emphasized the growing necessity for new housing to mitigate potential tax increases and address inflation-related costs. This general sentiment reflects a community divided, with some residents welcoming the new developments while others express apprehension about losing their beloved community charm.
Developers involved in these projects have also identified a shift in focus, leaning towards adaptation and revitalization. As Cayce moves forward, the city’s leadership and residents alike will need to navigate these changes carefully to balance growth with the preservation of community character.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Cayce Housing Growth
- The State: Cayce Development News
- Nashville Post: Cayce Neighborhood Development
- Tennessee Tribune: Cayce Place Development
- News Channel 5: Envision Cayce Development
- Wikipedia: Housing Development
- Google Search: Cayce South Carolina housing development
- Google Scholar: Cayce housing affordability
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Housing
- Google News: Cayce South Carolina
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