In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the approval process for a new infrastructure project linked to a previously approved Plan Development District (PDD). The project, which focuses solely on road and utility infrastructure, aims to facilitate future residential and commercial developments. The Planning Commission recommended approval to the City Council on August 14, and a workshop was held on September 5 to address community concerns.
The infrastructure plan includes a road network designed to enhance connectivity between key areas, including a potential frontage road that could link to Exit 8 and the Latitude Commercial Development area. The project has been developed in collaboration with the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and adjacent developments to address current and future traffic concerns.
Brian McClure, representing the project developers, emphasized their commitment to meeting and exceeding the conditions of the approved PDD. He noted that the project has received unanimous support from the Planning Commission and town staff, as well as from multiple engineering and traffic consultants involved in the planning process.
Concerns were raised during the meeting regarding stormwater management and potential flooding, particularly in light of past flooding events in the area. McClure assured council members that the project would implement flood control measures designed to handle storms up to a 500-year return period, significantly exceeding city requirements. He also highlighted that the design would allow for free flow of water, addressing fears of damming and flooding.
The discussion included detailed presentations from engineering consultants who outlined the project's design elements, including road widening and buffer zones to mitigate impacts on nearby residential areas. The developers proposed increasing buffer zones and setbacks to enhance separation between the new developments and existing neighborhoods.
As the meeting progressed, council members expressed their concerns about the adequacy of the proposed flood control measures, referencing past flooding experiences in the community. The developers reiterated their commitment to addressing these concerns and ensuring the project adheres to all regulatory requirements.
The meeting concluded with an invitation for further questions from council members, as the developers sought to clarify any remaining issues before moving forward with the approval process. The outcome of this meeting could significantly impact the future development landscape of the area, as the infrastructure project is a critical step toward facilitating new growth and connectivity.