Six-story building would alter Five Points’ character

When my family moved to Columbia in 2000, one of the things that attracted us to our neighborhood was the close proximity to the charming shopping and dining area of Five Points. We frequent many of the unique stores and restaurants in the area, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere, where we know many merchants by name. Our daughter celebrated her 11th birthday by having a scavenger hunt in Five Points with several of her friends. There really is no other place in Columbia with such a village atmosphere.

We are faced, however, with a new project that may forever change the face of this charming oasis of independent shops and eateries.

The proposed six-story building at the entrance to the south end of the village near the newest fountain is out of character with the two-story buildings surrounding it. The area can also ill-afford more construction, as many merchants can attest. The very things that make this such an attractive place to walk, shop and dine is threatened by this project.

The plans for Five Points show larger buildings will be permitted on the north side toward Gervais Street. Why, then, is a six-story building being considered on the south side? Why is a parking garage that is costing the city $5.8 million going on this site, when the city’s own survey said no parking garages in the area were needed? Why also is a less-expensive site behind Claussen’s that will be less intrusive and more in keeping with the future plan not being fully considered? Why is a contract that favors the developers and leaves the city at a disadvantage being so hurriedly pushed?

There is still time to weigh in on this matter, as the more than 200 people who attended a recent meeting with council members Daniel Rickenmann and Tameika Isaac Devine and Mayor Bob Coble can attest.

Think hard about what is best for the merchants, their customers and all the nearby residents who think of this wonderful village as their neighborhood shopping area. Smart growth requires careful planning that considers the unintended as well as the intended consequences.

KATHRYN J. LUCHOK

Columbia