BLYTHEWOOD (Jan. 21, 2016) – Another Rural (RU) zoned property on Rimer Pond Road is on the block for rezoning; however, this one hasn’t drawn the ire of neighbors as have other recently requested rezonings on the road.
A request by Kevin Steelman, representing Land Tech developers, to amend the current RU zoning on a 41+ acre Rimer Pond Road property to Residential Low Density (RS-LD) zoning for single-family homes will be heard by Richland County Planning Commission at 1 p.m., Monday, Feb. 2.
The tract lies between the VillageChurch and a 5-acre parcel across from Blythewood Middle School that developer Hugh Palmer recently requested to have rezoned for commercial use. That request failed to win approval of Richland County Council in December when the motion died with a 5-5 tie vote.
“This property already has higher density zoning on both sides and RS-LD on the back side,” Steelman told The Voice. “We decided low density zoning would be more in keeping with the surrounding area. I live in the area and we want to keep a rural feel to the road.”
With a pond stretching along the road frontage leaving no room for a road, Steelman said he anticipates leaving a border of trees the length of the property with only one entrance into the neighborhood off Rimer Pond Road.
“Land Tech already owns a 30-acre track adjacent to the 40-acre property,” Steelman said. “We have the option of a second entrance through our other property onto Longtown Road West.”
Steelman expects to build about 60 homes on the site and has a commitment from Palmetto Utilities for sewer.
“As for water, we have the option of using the Town of Winnsboro line that runs through the property, or we can use the City of Columbia line that is being installed along Rimer Pond Road. It will depend on the timing of the project and the fees,” Steelman said. “We have spoken with both providers and don’t anticipate any issues with either.”
“I don’t think any of us really want any more development along Rimer Pond Road,” said resident Michael Watts who has frequently opposed other requested rezonings on the road. “But, realistically, something is going to go there. We don’t want commercial and we don’t want medium or high density, so this is probably the best we can hope for.”
To print a copy of the Planning Commission agenda and rezoning request packet go to richlandonline.com or contact Susie Haynes at 576-2176. Steelman can be reached at 540-3474.
