Lexington, SC, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Lexington, a growing town in South Carolina, will see new traffic regulations outlawing left turns onto E. Main Street from Taylor Drive from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Additionally, a new four-story, 111-room Courtyard by Marriott hotel is set to develop downtown after overcoming initial rejection due to design issues. Local businesses are expanding, with new restaurants opening as part of the town’s strategic plan for revitalization, despite concerns about rising costs and potential displacement of long-time residents.
Lexington, a growing South Carolina town, is set to experience significant traffic changes and ongoing hotel development. Starting on August 28, making a left turn onto E. Main Street from Taylor Drive will be illegal during the hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The South Carolina Department of Transportation has installed signs at the intersection to inform drivers about these new regulations.
In addition to the traffic changes, the town is developing a four-story, 111-room Courtyard by Marriott hotel at 116 E. Main St. This project was initially proposed over a year ago but received denial in January of last year due to aesthetic concerns. Following revisions to the design, which included modifications approved by the board of appearance on March 11, the hotel project gained the necessary approval.
Local developer Lexington Hospitality is leading the hotel project. Construction permits are currently under the town’s review, with construction expected to begin in 2 to 6 months as of March 2023. Once construction starts, the project is estimated to take just over a year to complete. This hotel will occupy a previously vacant lot and is part of a broader plan to revitalize downtown Lexington.
Downtown Lexington has seen a notable increase in food and entertainment options, with new businesses including TakoSushi and Molto Vino opening recently. However, the area is also facing challenges; local business owner Ashley Heyl‘s gym, StrongHER, is facing potential displacement due to a proposed mixed-use development aimed at enhancing retail space and walkability throughout the downtown area. Despite the potential displacement, Heyl supports the mixed-use development as it aligns with the town’s vision for a more pedestrian-friendly environment.
The town’s development efforts are based on a strategic plan established in 2012, with goals to create a vibrant and accessible downtown. However, the response from residents has been mixed. Many support the growth while others express concerns about rising living costs that could displace long-standing community members. Mayor Hazel Livingston remarked on the importance of revitalization efforts and the strides made in the town over the past two decades.
Lexington has experienced significant population growth, soaring from 9,800 residents in 2000 to nearly 24,000 in 2020. The opening of the Icehouse Amphitheater in 2015 marked the beginning of increased investment in downtown, further propelling community initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for both locals and visitors.
Key Features of Downtown Lexington Developments
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Left Turn Prohibition | Illegal left turn from Taylor Drive onto E. Main Street from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. starting August 28. |
| Hotel Development | New Courtyard by Marriott with 111 rooms at 116 E. Main St. |
| Project History | Initial proposal denied; received approval after revisions. |
| Construction Timeline | Permits under review; construction to begin in 2 to 6 months. |
| Community Investment | Focus on creating vibrant downtown with new restaurants and mixed-use developments. |
| Population Growth | Population increased from 9,800 in 2000 to nearly 24,000 in 2020. |
FAQ
What are the new traffic regulations in downtown Lexington?
On August 28, making a left turn from Taylor Drive onto E. Main Street will be prohibited from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
When is the new hotel expected to open?
Construction for the new Courtyard by Marriott hotel is set to begin in 2 to 6 months from March 2023, and it will take just over a year to complete.
How has the population of Lexington changed over the years?
Lexington’s population has grown significantly, increasing from approximately 9,800 residents in 2000 to nearly 24,000 in 2020.
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Additional Resources
- ABC Columbia: Lexington Police Updates
- Wikipedia: Lexington, South Carolina
- The State: Local News
- Google Search: Lexington South Carolina development
- Post and Courier: Lexington Downtown Growth
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lexington South Carolina
- Cola Today: New and Upcoming Businesses
- Google News: Lexington SC news
- Cola Daily: Grand Opening in Lexington
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
