Exciting Development on Aiken’s South Side!
Aiken residents, get ready for some great news! The area south of Aiken’s city limits is buzzing with potential as new developments are on the way. In a recent meeting, the Aiken Planning Commission voted unanimously—6-0—to recommend to the Aiken City Council that they approve two utility service requests for projects in the vicinity of the intersection between Whiskey Road and Chukker Creek Road.
Parker’s Kitchen: A New Convenience Store
The first project we’re excited about is the much-anticipated Parker’s Kitchen. If you’re unfamiliar, Parker’s Kitchen is a popular gas station and convenience store chain based in Savannah. Their first Aiken location opened its doors just this past March, and now they’re gearing up to add a third store!
Located on the northwest corner of the Whiskey Road and Chukker Creek Road intersection, this new Parker’s Kitchen will aim to serve many busy folks in our community. The company recently submitted a request for water and sewer service in preparation for their exciting expansion. Although this property isn’t within city limits, it falls neatly inside the larger city water and sewer district.
The city’s planning commission anticipates this new convenience store will generate around 2,100 traffic trips a day, which includes 132 trips during morning peak hours and 153 in the evening. Traffic plans show that access will be managed through a right-turn lane on Whiskey Road as well as a right-in, right-out only lane on Chukker Creek Road. For those interested in the impact on their daily commute, it sounds like it will certainly add some lively activity to the area!
New Duplex Townhome Community
But wait, there’s more! The other project discussed is an appealing new 55-plus duplex townhome community being proposed by Lotus Park Senior Living. Located on the northeast corner of the same intersection, this community is designed specifically for seniors and is expected to enhance the housing options in Aiken.
Similar to Parker’s Kitchen, this development is not limited to city jurisdiction but will need to agree to annexation if the city expands in that direction. The traffic studies estimate that this project will generate less than 100 trips per hour at peak times, creating a more manageable flow of traffic than the gas station and convenience store.
Community Concerns
While these developments bring positive growth and opportunities, local residents are understandably concerned about potential traffic increases and the impact on the sewer system. A few residents from Chukker Creek voiced their worries during the commission meeting, highlighting issues such as increased traffic flow and additional burdens on sewer capacity. Others, like Linda Holmes, expressed the desire for a privacy fence to protect neighboring residential areas from any potential disturbance.
Next Steps
As for the next steps? The Aiken City Council is set to consider these requests in their meeting scheduled for September 23rd at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Building on Chesterfield Street. This meeting will be an opportunity for residents to voice their opinions and stay informed about the developments taking place in our area.
It’s truly a vibrant time for Aiken as we see growth and new opportunities popping up. Whether you’re a fan of quick snacks at Parker’s Kitchen or interested in the thoughtful planning of a new community for seniors, there’s plenty to be excited about.
Stay tuned for more updates as these projects develop; let’s keep our community engaged and thriving!
