Columbia, September 12, 2025
News Summary
Columbia’s long-vacant Marion Street High Rise will undergo redevelopment, led by GoodHomes Communities. The project aims to transform the building into affordable workforce apartments, with renovations starting soon and expected completion by mid-2026, which can enhance local housing availability and community stability.
Columbia is set to welcome the redevelopment of the long-vacant Marion Street High Rise, which has remained empty for four years after serving as affordable housing for seniors. The project is spearheaded by GoodHomes Communities, a New York-based company known for transforming aging housing into workforce apartments.
The Marion Street High Rise, which was built in 1975 and included 146 units spread across 16 stories, closed in 2021 due to high repair costs that the Columbia housing officials estimated to individually surpass its value: repairs were speculated to reach $16 million while complete replacement would cost around $20 million.
The property underwent multiple ownership changes after its closure, with the Columbia Housing Authority relocating 90 residents to other facilities or alternative housing by 2022 due to significant safety concerns. In January 2023, the building was sold by the Columbia Housing Authority for over $4 million, eventually being acquired by GoodHomes Communities in April 2025 for $5.8 million.
Renovations are now underway, starting with demolition, as the company has allocated a budget of $5 million for upgrades which will include new flooring, fresh paint, new cabinets, electrical systems, and the addition of kitchenettes within each unit. The initial phase of the project will focus on restoring elevator functionality to facilitate access for the construction crew. The location has faced instances of vandalism during its time of vacancy, notably with the theft of copper piping and other valuable materials.
Community members have expressed optimism regarding the redevelopment of Marion Street High Rise, anticipating that it will help stabilize the surrounding area by increasing housing availability and potentially reducing crime rates. The entire renovation project is anticipated to be completed by mid-2026, contributing positively to the local community.
In addition to the Marion Street High Rise project, plans are currently in place for further housing developments in the vicinity, including an eight-story apartment complex that is expected to bring nearly 300 new units to the area, which may impact local businesses.
The redevelopment of Marion Street High Rise reflects the ongoing efforts in Columbia to revitalize aging infrastructure and provide housing solutions for residents, while ensuring that future developments align with community needs.
FAQ
What is the Marion Street High Rise?
The Marion Street High Rise is a 16-story residential building in downtown Columbia that served as affordable housing for seniors before closing in 2021.
Why was the Marion Street High Rise closed?
The building was closed due to high repair costs that exceeded its value, along with significant safety concerns for the residents.
Who is redeveloping the Marion Street High Rise?
GoodHomes Communities, based in New York and specializing in converting aging properties into workforce apartments, is responsible for the redevelopment.
What renovations are planned for the building?
The renovations include demolition, new flooring, painting, cabinets, electrical systems, and the addition of kitchenettes in each of the 146 units.
When is the redevelopment expected to be completed?
The renovation project is targeted for completion by mid-2026.
Key Features of the Marion Street High Rise Redevelopment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Downtown Columbia |
| Original Build Year | 1975 |
| Total Units | 146 |
| Renovation Budget | $5 Million |
| Projected Completion | Mid-2026 |
| New Ownership | GoodHomes Communities |
| Previous Issues | Vandalism, safety concerns |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Columbia Redevelops Marion Street High Rise for Housing
Plans for New High-Rise Housing Development in Columbia
Additional Resources
- WLTX: Columbia High Rise Begins Transformation
- Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
- Post and Courier: Marion Vacant Senior Housing Redeveloped
- Google Search: Columbia High Rise Redevelopment
- WLTX: Long Vacant Downtown High Rise Getting Second Life
- Google Scholar: Redevelopment of High Rises
- WISTV: Residents Aging in Marion Street High Rise Expected to Move
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Renewal
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