Details for riverfront ‘Brookland’ project remain unsettled

Four mini-parks and a plaza would wrap around four buildings in preliminary plans for development of a signature, four-acre site near the West Columbia riverfront.

But many aspects of the project, named “Brookland” after the Lexington County community’s original name, are yet to be determined, said Matt Mundy of Estates & Companies, developer for a project some city leaders estimate will total $40 million.

“There’s a long trip ahead, but it’ll be a fun journey,” Mundy said after City Council gave final approval Monday to the sale of property, known locally as The Pit because of the sloping terrain.

Plans call for plenty of windows on buildings to provide views of the Congaree River, he said.

The mix of public spaces and river views promises “vibrancy” that will make the project a destination for shoppers regionally as well as a popular spot for those who want to live in an upscale urban setting, City Council chairman B.J. Unthank said.

Plans so far envision a mix of apartments, condominiums, restaurants, offices and boutique stores as well as parking for river recreation, he said.

Some city officials predict there will be about 100 apartments and 100 condominiums atop stores, although Mundy said those details, as well as retailers being sought, are unsettled.

Development of the site at State and Meetings streets near the Gervais Street Bridge will be a private-public partnership.

Mundy expects the final plan to be ready by Dec. 31, with work starting in 2016 and finished in two years.

Karen Hoover, who shortly is opening an adjoining consignment shop for home furnishings and jewelry, is happy with her new neighbor.

“It’s the best thing that has ever happened to West Columbia,” she said of the project.

This story was originally published April 21, 2015 at 9:03 PM with the headline "Details for riverfront ‘Brookland’ project remain unsettled."