July 31, 2025

Columbia, SC, Experiences Growth with New Developments

News Summary

Columbia, SC, is poised for substantial growth in the coming years with various development projects that will enhance recreational, dining, and healthcare facilities. Key projects include the construction of a School of Medicine and Research, redevelopments at Richland Mall, and a new electric vehicle facility by Volkswagen. Numerous new dining options are set to open, alongside expansions in the medical sector. Community and recreational facilities are also on the rise, indicating Columbia’s commitment to modernizing and attracting new residents and businesses.

Columbia, SC is set for significant growth and transformation over the next few years, with numerous development projects and new businesses coming to the area. These developments promise to enhance recreational opportunities, dining options, and medical facilities, ultimately contributing to the region’s economy and community life.

Upcoming Major Projects

Construction is slated to begin on the School of Medicine and Research building in 2025, with completion expected by 2027. This facility is anticipated to play a vital role in medical education and research in the region.

Additionally, Richland Mall is undergoing redevelopment with a $3 million allocation from city officials and legislators. The first phase of this project is expected to commence around 2028, followed by a second phase anticipated to be completed around 2033.

Volkswagen’s Scout Motors, an electric off-road vehicle facility, is also set to open in Blythewood in 2026, further contributing to local job creation and sustainability efforts.

New Dining and Retail Options

A variety of new restaurants and retail establishments are opening across the Columbia area. Notable openings include:

Drake’s Duck-In, returning to its renovated location at 1544 Main St.
Molto Vino, a boutique wine bar at 514 E Main St., Lexington, expected to open in 2024 with 32 wines on tap.
Mission BBQ at 275 Harbison Blvd. opening date yet to be determined.
Scoop of Heaven Homemade Ice Cream planned for Spring 2024 at 565 Spears Creek Church Rd., Elgin.
Slim Chickens will open a location at 2089 N Beltline Blvd. in Spring 2024.
Tacos Nayarit, known for its popular tacos, is opening a second location at 1100 Knox Abbott Dr.
TakoSushi will launch two locations, including one at 514 E Main St., Lexington, in 2024.
Tupelo Honey is expected to open in the BullStreet District by Winter 2024.
Vicious Biscuit, specializing in brunch, slated to open at 3246 Forest Dr. with an undecided date.
Queer Haven Books, South Carolina’s only independent queer bookstore, will open in Arcade Mall in Spring 2024.
Biscuitville is set to debut its second location at 7924 Garners Ferry Rd. on March 12.
Chicken Salad Chick is now open at 4840 Forest Dr., Suite 26 in the former BLD Diner location.

Healthcare and Fitness Developments

Medical infrastructure is also expanding in Columbia. Lexington Medical Center is planning a new 20,000-sqft medical facility at 5143 and 5133 Forest Dr. with a yet-to-be-determined opening date. Concurrently, USC’s College of Nursing and a nursing simulation center will open in 2024, featuring 52,000 sq. ft. of space dedicated to educating future healthcare professionals.

The Pvolve fitness studio will introduce its first location in South Carolina at Bennett at BullStreet in May 2024, showcasing a growing interest in health and wellness among Columbia residents.

Community and Recreational Additions

As recreational spaces become increasingly important, several local facilities are set to enhance community engagement. PickleGarden on the River, a new pickleball facility, is projected to open at 680 Candi Ln. in late 2024. The Flip Factory, located at 5496 Forest Dr., is also expected to launch in late 2024, promising a variety of indoor activities for families and individuals.

Furthermore, improvements to Finlay Park, located at 930 Laurel St., are planned for completion in Fall 2025, demonstrating the city’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing its public spaces.

Housing Initiatives

Residential developments include the Midtown at BullStreet project, which will offer 18 townhouses and 72 garden-style apartments, and the Bennett at BullStreet, which is currently leasing and will accommodate over 500 residents. Another key initiative is the Benton Crossing multi-family community, expected to open in Spring 2024.

These developments not only signify a commitment to growth and modernization in Columbia, SC, but also highlight the city’s potential for attracting new residents, businesses, and visitors in the coming years.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Columbia Prepares for Back-to-School Backpack Giveaways
Cayce, S.C. Sees Surge in Residential Development
Columbia Prepares for a Month of Events Including 803 Day
Columbia Native Bonnie Discepolo Shines in Superman
Gray Collegiate Academy Delays Opening of Irmo Campus
Construction of Fairfield Inn Raises Concerns in Cayce

Additional Resources

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.

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