Exciting Developments on the Horizon for Aiken
The charming city of Aiken is gearing up for some exciting new infrastructure as plans unfold for a road connecting Powderhouse and Whiskey Roads. While the ground hasn’t been broken yet, the anticipation is palpable, and let’s just say that Aiken locals have something to look forward to!
Connecting the Dots
The proposed connector road will create a much-needed link between Powderhouse and Whiskey Roads, which currently intersect south of the city. The new route is set to be positioned closer to downtown Aiken, promising to enhance accessibility and ease traffic congestion in the bustling area.
City Council Takes Action
On October 14, the Aiken City Council came together with a unanimous vote to approve the second and final reading of an ordinance for annexing and zoning a sizeable 36.88 acres of land owned by Clifton Place Partners, LLC. This land, conveniently located on the west side of Powderhouse Road, is set for transformation into a new community, featuring a mix of residential and commercial developments.
The Summerall Project
Speaking of developments, the city is buzzing with plans for a community named The Summerall. The project, spearheaded by CSRA Development, will incorporate a 171-unit single-family attached townhome community, which is expected to draw new residents to Aiken. City officials are enthusiastic that this new development, combined with the proposed road, will cater to the needs of an expanding local population.
Tackling Traffic
The intention behind creating this new connector is not just for convenience but to tackle the increasing traffic woes on Whiskey Road. City studies suggest that the new road, informally referred to as the Powderhouse Connector, could reduce traffic on Whiskey Road by a remarkable 20%. It’s all about making the commute smoother for Aiken’s residents!
Planning in Phases
Construction for this connector will occur in two phases. The first phase focuses on connecting Whiskey Road to South Centennial Avenue, and the second phase will extend that road to join with Powderhouse Road. With a total estimated cost of $38.37 million, this project is receiving funding from various sources, which reflects the city’s commitment to developing a robust infrastructure for the future.
Funding the Future
The funding will comprise $20.84 million from the South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank, $8.97 million from the county-wide Capital Project Sales Tax, $8 million from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and $621,000 from the County Transportation Committee. With a solid funding plan, the city seems well on its way to making this project a reality.
Other Developments on the Way
As if that weren’t enough good news, the Aiken City Council has also green-lit a property for a new Hampton Inn/Home2Suites hotel, located conveniently between The Summerall and Whiskey Road. Such developments are expected to enhance the hospitality landscape of Aiken, making it an attractive destination for visitors.
A Step Forward for Infrastructure
Alongside these promising developments, the city has made strides toward upgrading water infrastructure in the area. During the recent council meeting, an ordinance was unanimously approved to allocate $1.49 million from the American Rescue Plan Act for necessary waterline upgrades to support the impending growth.
In Conclusion
There’s a palpable buzz of excitement in Aiken as residents look forward to the improvements the Powderhouse Connector and surrounding developments will bring. With infrastructure improvements and new community projects on the way, it’s clear that Aiken is on the precipice of a vibrant transformation. As we await the construction to begin, it’s comforting to know that these steps forward mean brighter days ahead for this lovely city!
