Developers say a number of new businesses could start opening as early as March next year.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — We’re finding out more about a new shopping center under construction in Red Bank.
Developers say Platte Springs Crossing will attract a number of new businesses to the area, which could begin welcoming customers as early as March of next year.
Ben Kelly, a partner at commercial real estate firm NAI Columbia, said the project spans more than 50 acres.
“It’s a 57-acre mixed-use development that will include a Lowes Foods store, a couple of other buildings that Chipotle is building, a medical building is under construction, a Whataburger is under construction and a Big Blue Marble daycare is due to open next week,” Kelly said.
Kelly said additional residential units will also be part of the development, along with new restaurants, childcare centers and grocery stores.
“The next phase will be 145 townhouses, with vertical construction due to commence within the next six months,” Mr Kelly explained.
Residents won’t have to wait too long for the new store to open, according to Patrick Chambers, a partner at NAI Columbia.
“The first ones to probably open will be Chipotle, Whataburger, possibly Panda Express and Big Blue Marble, all of which are scheduled to (open) in the first quarter of 2025. Lowes Foods will probably be in the third quarter of 2025,” Chambers said.
Both developers say population growth throughout Red Bank has made the Platt Springs area a more attractive location for commercial builders.
“I think the overall growth of the area is the main thing that’s driving this retail development. The intersection of Highway 6 and Platte Springs (Road) is more of a nexus for all the big box grocery stores and big box retailers than any other part of the city. So I think the residential growth, the rooftop growth and the synergies with other retailers is what’s driving this development,” Chambers explained.
Many of the residents we spoke with were concerned about bringing additional traffic to Platt Springs Road.
“Growth is good for Red Bank and it’s going to help create and stimulate more job opportunities, so growth is good for opportunity here, but you know, traffic is going to be heavy, but that’s normal,” said Brandi Ijames of Red Bank.
Red Bank resident Murray Wilson added, “No, I’m not worried at all. This is a good thing. I remember when we didn’t have a Walmart. It can only be good for us, it really can be. And I’m happy.”
In addition to Lowes Foods, Chipotle, Panda Express and Whataburger, Planet Fitness, Harbor Freight, Tidal Wave Car Wash, a bank and a Firestone Tire store are also set to open at Platte Springs Crossing.