West Columbia, August 30, 2025
News Summary
The Capitol Square redevelopment project in West Columbia is facing significant delays, with construction yet to begin over a year after its approval. Ownership issues concerning a small parcel used by House of Raeford complicate progress. Despite these challenges, recent developments suggest that preparations for future construction may be underway. Local officials emphasize the importance of the project for enhancing community retail options and economic growth.
West Columbia Faces Continued Delays on Capitol Square Redevelopment
The redevelopment of Capitol Square in West Columbia is experiencing significant delays, with construction yet to commence more than a year after the project’s initial approval. Designed to transform a vacant shopping center site into a mixed-use complex, the project aims to feature a grocery store, retail space, and a four-story apartment building with 224 units.
Located at the intersection of Meeting Street and Sunset Boulevard, directly across from the House of Raeford chicken plant, the Capitol Square project has been stalled due to ownership issues. A small plot of land used for employee parking by House of Raeford has complicated the redevelopment efforts. Ongoing discussions between the involved parties have yet to yield a resolution.
Despite these challenges, optimism has surfaced recently. Baker Commercial Properties, which has overseen the acquisition of the majority of the Capitol Square site since purchasing it for $1.85 million in 2005, received permission in December to manage adjacent Leaphart Street. This development suggests preparations may be underway for future construction.
Project Scope and Approval
The Capitol Square project initially gained traction when Baker Commercial Properties presented plans to the West Columbia City Council in May 2022, followed by approval from the planning commission in September 2022. The project is intended to create a vibrant mixed-use community, inclusive of a grocery store, retail shops, office spaces, and public green areas that enhance pedestrian access.
Additionally, plans include addressing parking concerns with a dedicated public lot and off-street parking estimated to accommodate between 550 and 645 vehicles. The West Columbia City Council still needs to review required zoning changes and road closures before any construction can formally begin.
Community Support and Economic Importance
Local officials, including Councilman David Moye, have underscored the desire within the community for more grocery stores and retail opportunities. The area has voiced anticipation for the project’s completion, further emphasizing the economic significance it holds for West Columbia.
Before the delays, Baker Commercial had voiced considerations about relocating the House of Raeford chicken plant to Aiken County, yet this plan fell through as Aiken’s county council declined to provide necessary tax incentives. The chicken plant employs nearly 600 individuals and plays a pivotal role in local revenue generation, while also being the city’s largest water customer.
Key Developments and Real Estate Trends
As of now, the Capitol Square project has been removed from Baker Commercial’s list of future projects on their website, highlighting a lack of progress. West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles remains cautious, expressing uncertainty about the project’s future and its potential evolution, reflecting the realities of complex urban development.
The anticipated project holds promise for revitalizing the area economically and socially. However, stakeholders remain aware of the initial delays and the preliminary status of plans needed to bring this vision to fruition.
Conclusion
As West Columbia continues to navigate the complexities surrounding the Capitol Square redevelopment, the community looks forward to a resolution that will lead to new opportunities for housing, shopping, and a more vibrant city landscape.
FAQ
- What is the Capitol Square redevelopment project?
The Capitol Square project is intended to transform a vacant shopping center site in West Columbia into a mixed-use complex featuring a grocery store, retail spaces, and a 224-unit apartment building.
- Why is the construction delayed?
Construction has not started due to ownership issues with a plot owned by House of Raeford, which complicates redevelopment plans.
- What approvals have been received for the project?
Baker Commercial Properties received project approval from the West Columbia planning commission in September 2022 after presenting plans in May 2022.
- What economic impact does House of Raeford have?
Employing nearly 600 people, House of Raeford is critical for local economic activity and is the city’s largest water customer.
- When is construction expected to begin?
There is no specific timeline for construction commencement as the project requires further zoning changes and road closures approvals from the West Columbia City Council.
Key Features of the Capitol Square Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Meeting Street and Sunset Boulevard, West Columbia |
| Primary Components | Grocery store, retail spaces, 224-unit apartment complex |
| Acquired Land | Majority acquired since 2005; additional land purchased in 2021 and 2023 |
| Parking Solutions | Dedicated public lot and off-street parking for 550-645 vehicles |
| Stakeholders | Baker Commercial Properties, West Columbia City Council, House of Raeford |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Ursus Brew Works to Open in Charleston by 2026
New Mixed-Use Apartment Building Proposed for Columbia
West Columbia’s Meeting Street Safety Upgrade Planned
New Trailhead Townhomes Project Planned for West Columbia
New Circle K Convenience Store Opening in Lexington
Columbia Housing’s Yvonda Bean Steps Down as CEO
New Hotel and Steakhouse Planned for Lexington’s Main Street
Capitol Square Redevelopment Project Approved in West Columbia
Additional Resources
- Colatoday: West Columbia’s Capitol Square Set for Mixed-Use Redevelopment
- The State: West Columbia Faces Continued Delays on Capitol Square Redevelopment
- Columbia Business Report: How Relentless Growth is Changing the Dynamic of Midlands’ Smaller Towns
- Post and Courier: West Columbia Redevelopment & Chicken Plant Controversy
- WLTX: New Housing Redevelopment Happening in West Columbia, South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Urban Development
- Google Search: Urban Redevelopment Trends
- Google Scholar: Urban Redevelopment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Development
- Google News: West Columbia Redevelopment
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.
