A 22 acre derelict mining site along Columbiana Drive has been recommended for rezoning by the Irmo Planning Commission which could lead to a multi family community development of 300 apartments. The apartments would rent at the market rate and the property would have a swimming pool, clubhouse, gym and ample parking.
Residents attending the planning commission meeting on Monday, July 8, voiced concerns about traffic and congestion but according to a traffic study on the area there would be little or no impact to the already busy intersections.
The additional vehicles from the development during peak hours would not require roadway modifications or additional intersection improvements. The longest delays were estimated to be around 35 to 55 seconds.
The main entrance would be along Columbiana Drive and a secondary entrance on Battery Road.
Concerns were raised that the secondary entrance would cause unnecessary traffic in the neighborhood that it is connected to and that the road itself is not in good shape.
The site was a clay mine until 2023 when it ceased operations. Long Key Development has submitted the plans for the complex. The site is near Jim Hudson Toyota and Woodspring Suites Apartments
A public hearing will be held on July 16.
