News Summary
The city of West Columbia is set to welcome the Trailhead Townhomes, a new residential project featuring over 50 townhome units by the Saluda River. The West Columbia Planning Commission has recommended rezoning the land to facilitate this development, which aims to enhance community accessibility and beautify the area. While many locals are excited, there are concerns about traffic and environmental impact. If approved, the project will be conveniently located next to additional housing developments, promoting growth and engagement within the community.
Exciting New Development on the Saluda River: Trailhead Townhomes Coming to West Columbia
West Columbia is buzzing with excitement as plans for a new residential project along the stunning Saluda River take shape. The project, named Trailhead Townhomes, proposes the construction of over 50 new townhome units nestled on a picturesque 3-acre site that sits conveniently between U.S. 378/Sunset Boulevard and the serene waters of the river. This ambitious venture is shaping up to be a significant enhancement to the city’s charm and accessibility.
A Step Forward for the Community
The West Columbia Planning Commission held a meeting on January 27 where they unanimously recommended the rezoning of the land for the Trailhead Townhomes development to the city council. The excitement rippled through the community as developer Dustin Johns outlined plans to improve the area, focusing on beautifying the city and enhancing public access to the river for all to enjoy.
Each of the planned 52 townhome units will come with four parking spaces available for residents, allowing families and individuals easy access to their homes. In addition, developers are looking to improve accessibility to the existing public parking at the northern entrance to the West Columbia Riverwalk. They propose adding a roadway from Sunset Boulevard, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the prettiness of the river and its surroundings.
Addressing Community Concerns
During a recent joint public hearing, community members were given a chance to voice their opinions about the development. While many expressed enthusiasm about the project, there were also concerns raised by a few local residents. Some voiced worries about potential increases in traffic and the possibility of litter impacting the natural beauty of the area.
The developer responded to traffic concerns by highlighting plans for a new road leading off Sunset Boulevard. This road is expected to help alleviate stress on local streets. Daily traffic counts show that approximately 15,400 cars currently pass through the Sunset Boulevard area, indicating a bustling environment that needs careful navigation.
Future of West Columbia
If the city council approves this development, the townhomes will be strategically located just west of the House of Raeford chicken plant, a longstanding fixture in the area since 1998. The convenience of the new housing will also place it adjacent to a planned 224-unit multi-family housing development at the former Capitol Square shopping center, allowing for growth and expansion within the community.
Moreover, this project comes on the heels of another housing development nearby, where plans transitioned from 90 townhomes to 55 single-family homes due to traffic concerns raised last year. It’s crucial for the city to find the right balance between growth and maintaining a peaceful environment for residents.
Promoting Accessibility and Visibility
City Councilman David Moye emphasized the importance of enhancing visibility in areas that may currently feel isolated, particularly when it comes to encouraging public use of the riverwalk and parks. The Trailhead Townhomes project is seen as a step in the right direction to foster community engagement with natural attractions.
As residents await further developments, the prospect of the Trailhead Townhomes shines brightly on the horizon, with hopes for a vibrant, accessible community that prioritizes both beauty and functionality along the beautiful banks of the Saluda River.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The State: New Development on the Saluda River
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
- WLTX: West Columbia Town Home Development Proposal
- Google Search: West Columbia townhomes
- Post and Courier: Weco Sunset Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cities
- ABC 17 News: Large Police Presence at West Columbia Housing Complex
- Google News: West Columbia development
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