USC takes next step in realizing massive development project around Williams-Brice

Posted 6/27/24

The University of South Carolina is making progress on its plan to redevelop around 900 acres of land along the Congaree River by Williams-Brice Stadium after issuing a formal request for proposals last week.

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Subscribe to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in

Get 50% of all subscriptions for a limited time. Subscribe today.

You can cancel anytime.
 

Please log in to continue

Log in

USC takes next step in realizing massive development project around Williams-Brice

Posted

The University of South Carolina is making progress on its plan to redevelop around 900 acres of land along the Congaree River by Williams-Brice Stadium after issuing a formal request for proposals last week.

Officials from the school’s athletic department met with the State Fiscal Accountability Authority to receive approval to begin soliciting proposals for the project.

“Issuing this Request for Proposals is the next critical step in a lengthy process,” South Carolina Athletics Director Ray Tanner said. “We are thankful to state leaders for supporting our vision to transform this underutilized region of the Midlands to benefit our fans and residents alike.”

The land is located behind the football practice facilities and is already owned by the university. The goal is to turn the unused land into a thriving entertainment district that fans can venture to whether there is a game that week or not.

A large portion of the 900 acres sits in a flood plain. In the early 2000s, Carolina Venture Group purchased a large chunk of land in the same area and attempted to construct its own entertainment district.

Their attempt was unsuccessful after a lengthy legal battle that reached the state supreme court. The court ruled Richland County’s restriction of construction in flood-prone areas was reasonable, and the project was shut down.

The university acquired the land and announced plans to begin its development project in February 2023 by submitting its initial request for information. The school says land in the flood zone “offers opportunities for outdoor recreation of numerous varieties that will be attractive to the public and university students.”

The school will look to lease the land out to interested developers and business owners. The university will not own or operate the businesses on the land.

Money generated from those lease agreements will be put towards upgrades to Williams-Brice and other facilities. Development on leased land will also create new employment opportunities and “make the Midlands a more vibrant place to live, work and recreate,” according to the school.

Once the university receives enough requests from potential developers, it will begin a “fair and competitive evaluation process.” Agreements must be submitted to the Fiscal Accountability Authority for approval.

The project will not include moving Williams-Brice Stadium or obtaining the State Fairgrounds.

University of South Carolina, Williams-Brice Stadium

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here