Columbia, SC Welcomes Major Developments and Openings

Columbia, SC, August 23, 2025

News Summary

Columbia, SC is poised for significant growth with several new developments that aim to boost the local economy and enhance community life. Notable projects include the USC School of Medicine and Research building, set to commence in 2025, and the major redevelopment of Richland Mall, projected to complete its first phase by 2028. The electric vehicle sector is also expanding with Scout Motors’ new facility, while the dining scene will see multiple new restaurants opening in 2024. These initiatives will greatly enrich the community and provide new opportunities for residents.

Columbia, SC is set to experience a wave of new developments and openings that promise to enhance the community’s lifestyle and economy in the coming years. Among the most significant projects is the construction of a new USC School of Medicine and Research building, anticipated to break ground in 2025 and finish by 2027, in a bid to strengthen the area’s status as a center for medical education and research.

In addition to educational institutions, Richland Mall is undergoing a major redevelopment project. The first phase is expected to be completed by 2028, with a total investment of $3 million, catered towards revamping the shopping and entertainment experience in the region. This redevelopment will span multiple phases, extending until 2033.

The electric vehicle market is also making strides in Columbia, with the opening of Scout Motors facility in Blythewood, which is set to produce electric off-road vehicles starting in 2026. This will create new jobs and opportunities in the region as the automotive industry evolves towards greener alternatives.

Food enthusiasts will rejoice with a host of new eateries set to debut in Columbia in 2024. Notable openings include Molto Vino, a boutique wine bar in Lexington, and Drake’s Duck-In, which will be returning to Main Street following renovations. Additionally, Scoop of Heaven Homemade Ice Cream will welcome customers in Spring 2024 at their new location in Elgin, while Slim Chickens, a casual chicken restaurant, is expected to launch at 2089 N Beltline Blvd during the same season.

Other gastronomic additions include Tacos Nayarit, known for its exceptional tacos, which is opening a second location at 1100 Knox Abbott Dr., and TakoSushi, planning two more spots in the Midlands, one of which will also be located in Lexington. Tupelo Honey is expected to open in the BullStreet District in Winter 2024, further diversifying the dining options in Columbia.

On the fitness front, Pvolve, a fitness franchise, will open its first South Carolina studio at Bennett at BullStreet in May 2024, while 24-Hour Pickleball has already opened its doors in Lexington, catering to active community members. There will also be a new pickleball facility named PickleGarden on the River, slated for late 2024, adding to the growing recreational spaces in the area.

Healthcare will see advancements as well, with Lexington Medical Center planning a new 20,000-square-foot facility at two locations on Forest Drive. Furthermore, the USC College of Nursing and Lexington Medical Center are collaborating on a state-of-the-art nursing simulation and teaching center scheduled for construction in 2024.

Residing options will also expand, with the Bennett at BullStreet luxury apartment community now leasing and a new residential development named Midtown at BullStreet on the horizon. The latter will offer a mix of townhouses and garden-style units, appealing to diverse living preferences. Additionally, the Finlay Park revitalization project is projected for completion by Fall 2025, enhancing outdoor entertainment and community engagement in urban Columbia.

In retail, a new Lowes Foods grocery store is planned for the Northeast corner of South Lake Drive and Platt Springs Road, further nurturing the local economy and convenience for residents. A notable addition, Queer Haven Books, is expected to be the only independent queer bookstore in South Carolina, opening in Arcade Mall in Spring 2024, marking a significant cultural landmark for the community.

Key Developments and Openings:

• USC School of Medicine and Research: Begin in 2025, complete by 2027.
• Richland Mall redevelopment: Phase one by 2028, total investment $3 million.
• Scout Motors facility: Opening in Blythewood for electric vehicles in 2026.
• Molt Vino: New boutique wine bar, opening in 2024 at 514 E Main St.
• Drake’s Duck-In: Returning to Main Street after renovation.
• PickleGarden on the River: New pickleball facility planned for late 2024.
• Lexington Medical Center new facility: 20,000 sqft on Forest Dr.
• Queer Haven Books: South Carolina’s first independent queer bookstore, Spring 2024.

Conclusion:

Columbia’s future shines bright with a promising lineup of developments and openings that encompass education, dining, healthcare, and living spaces. The city is dynamically evolving to meet the needs and interests of its residents while laying the groundwork for future growth. As these projects come to fruition, the community can expect an enriched quality of life and enhanced economic landscape.

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Additional Resources

• Colatoday: New and Coming Soon Businesses to Columbia, SC
• Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
• Colatoday: New Developments and Openings
• Google Search: Columbia SC business news
• Colatoday: Upcoming Eateries in Columbia
• Google Scholar: Columbia South Carolina development
• Colatoday: Columbia Healthcare Developments
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia
• Colatoday: Residential Developments in Columbia
• Google News: Columbia SC developments

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