News Summary
Columbia, South Carolina, is preparing for a series of transformative development projects, including medical facilities, retail spaces, and dining establishments. The USC School of Medicine and Research building is slated to commence in 2025, while Richland Mall’s redevelopment is set for completion around 2033. New eateries and fitness facilities are also on the way, aiming to enhance the local economy and attract more visitors. With significant investments in healthcare and infrastructure, Columbia is poised to become a vibrant hub for residents and tourists alike.
Columbia, South Carolina is set to undergo significant transformations as multiple development projects are slated to commence in the coming years. Major investments in medical facilities, retail, and dining options are on the horizon, promising to enhance the local economy and community offerings.
The construction of the USC School of Medicine and Research building is anticipated to begin in 2025, with a projected completion date of 2027. This initiative aims to bolster medical education and research in the region, positioning Columbia as a hub for healthcare innovation.
Additionally, the Richland Mall redevelopment will kick off with an allocation of $3 million. The first phase of this development is expected to be completed by approximately 2028, while the second phase is projected for completion around 2033. This redevelopment is part of a comprehensive plan to revitalize the shopping center and attract more tourists and shoppers.
Another significant development includes Scout Motors, which is set to open a new facility for Volkswagen’s electric off-road vehicles in Blythewood by 2026. This project is expected to create numerous jobs and contribute significantly to the local economy.
A variety of new eateries are also on the way. Among these, Drake’s Duck-In, a popular lunchtime destination for chicken lovers, will be returning to its renovated location at 1544 Main St. Meanwhile, Molto Vino is slated to open a boutique wine bar at 514 E Main St., Lexington in 2024, featuring 32 wines on tap and various member events.
Mission BBQ is expected to make its debut at 275 Harbison Blvd, offering diners a patriotic-themed experience. Other notable eateries include a new location for Tacos Nayarit at 1100 Knox Abbott Dr., and Scoop of Heaven Homemade Ice Cream, which plans to open in Spring 2024 at 565 Spears Creek Church Rd., Elgin.
Further additions to Columbia’s culinary scene include casual restaurant Slim Chickens at 2089 N Beltline Blvd, TakoSushi planning to open two new locations—including one at 514 E Main St., Lexington— and Tupelo Honey, which will be expanding to the BullStreet District in Winter 2024.
In terms of fitness and recreation, Pvolve will open its first South Carolina studio in May 2024 at Bennett at BullStreet, promoting low-impact fitness options. The PickleGarden on the River, a new pickleball facility, is also set to launch in late 2024 at 680 Candi Ln.
Health services in the region are also growing. Lexington Medical Center is planning to construct a 20,000-square-foot facility at 5143 and 5133 Forest Dr., with an opening date to be determined. Additionally, the USC College of Nursing and Lexington Medical Center are collaborating to create a 52,000-square-foot nursing simulation center, which is expected to open in 2024.
Ongoing infrastructure projects include the revitalization of Finlay Park in downtown Columbia, set for completion in Fall 2025, and the construction of Midtown at BullStreet, which will feature new housing units across from Segra Park, with opening dates yet to be announced.
In the retail sector, Queer Haven Books, South Carolina’s only independent queer bookstore, is on track to open in Arcade Mall in Spring 2024. Meanwhile, Lowes Foods is planning to introduce its fifth Midlands location at the corner of South Lake Dr. and Platt Springs Rd.
The comprehensive growth across various sectors, including retail, dining, health services, and recreational facilities, is anticipated to elevate Columbia’s status as a vibrant hub for both residents and visitors alike in the coming years.
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Additional Resources
- Drake’s Duck-In
- Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
- Richland Mall Redevelopment
- Google Search: Columbia South Carolina development
- Scout Motors
- Google Scholar: Columbia SC economic development
- Mission BBQ
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia South Carolina
- Lexington Medical Center
- Google News: Columbia South Carolina businesses
