News Summary
Downtown Columbia is set for a major transformation with a $225 million mixed-use development by Core Spaces. Plans include two high-rise towers featuring a student dormitory and market-rate apartments, aiming to meet the demand for both housing types. With a significant number of parking spaces and community benefits, the project promises to revitalize the area and attract students and young professionals alike.
Exciting New Development Set to Transform Downtown Columbia!
Downtown Columbia is buzzing with excitement as plans for a stunning mixed-use development begin to take shape. A Chicago-based developer, Core Spaces, is set to break ground on a $225 million project that includes two impressive high-rise towers, promising to reshape the skyline and bring a new life to the area.
A Glimpse at the Project
The proposed development features a 22-story private student dormitory and a breathtaking 26-story market-rate apartment building. This is not just your ordinary construction; it’s designed to cater to the growing demand for both student housing and upscale living spaces. Nestled on an undeveloped parking lot located on Main Street between Hampton and Washington streets, the new structures aim to maximize the potential of this prime location.
Previously owned by Wells Fargo since the 1990s, the property was recently acquired by Columbia 1441 Partners LLC, marking a significant step forward in revitalizing the downtown area.
Space for Everyone
One of the standout features of this ambitious project is an expansive parking garage that will offer 1,500 spaces for residents and visitors. It’s clear that accommodating the needs of the community is a top priority. Not only will there be plenty of private parking, but there are also provisions for public parking options, making it easier for everyone to enjoy everything downtown Columbia has to offer.
Plenty of Living Options
A Proven Developer
Core Spaces is no stranger to the area. In 2014, they transformed a former SCANA office building into The Hub, which has successfully added substantial student housing to Main Street. The project’s past experiences have paved the way for greater community acceptance, as concerns over potential disturbances have mostly faded, leaving behind a flourishing relationship with local businesses.
Heightening Expectations
As for the towers themselves, the market-rate building is projected to soar up to an impressive 270 feet, surpassing the adjacent Wells Fargo building. For those keeping track, Columbia’s tallest building, known as the Capital Center, stands just under 350 feet, indicating that this new project will proudly contribute to the city’s skyline.
Overcoming Challenges
This development comes at a time when city council discussions are underway regarding the possibility of limiting private student dorms downtown. However, it appears that the new project is well-positioned and will likely remain unaffected by these proposed measures. The designs include two- and three-bedroom units, with no dorm accommodating more than four bedrooms.
Next Steps and Community Impact
Of course, with great projects come great responsibilities. The proposed development will exceed current density regulations, which means a special exception will be necessary to proceed. The Board of Zoning Appeals is set to evaluate the proposal during its upcoming meeting on May 1, marking a critical moment for the project.
Overall, the excitement surrounding the $225 million mixed-use development in downtown Columbia is palpable. With housing options for students and families alike and the promise of revitalizing the urban landscape, everyone is eagerly anticipating what is sure to be a transformative addition to the city.
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Additional Resources
- The State: Development News
- Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
- WLTX: Apartment Proposal
- Google Search: Columbia apartment developments
- Post and Courier: City Ordinance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Development
- ABC 17 News: Apartment Fire
- Google News: Columbia high-rise apartments
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