News Summary
The former Pacific Mills site in Lyman is slated for redevelopment by 2027 after feasibility studies were conducted. The town, owning the 32-acre property, is collaborating with Clemson University students to propose different development scenarios. Plans aim to enhance the area with mixed-use development, including retail and housing. The historical significance of the site, once a community hub, will be honored in the redevelopment process. The town anticipates generating economic growth through increased residential and commercial activity in the downtown area.
Lyman’s Former Pacific Mills Site Set for Redevelopment by 2027 Following Feasibility Studies
The former Pacific Mills site in Lyman is slated for redevelopment by 2027, following a series of feasibility studies assessing its potential. The town of Lyman, which currently owns the 32-acre property, has engaged Clemson University students to propose five different development scenarios for the area. Mayor Glenn Greer emphasized the importance of the redevelopment being financially feasible, with a preference for a mixed-use development that would include new retail and housing spaces.
The Pacific Mills plant, established in 1923 and expanded in 1972, was a significant social hub for the community, providing amenities such as a community pool and a baseball league. After operating for 80 years, the plant closed in 2005, and most of its buildings were demolished by 2012, leaving only the five-story administrative building and the former boiler room standing. The site’s rich history culminated in a celebration of the mill’s 100th anniversary in 2023.
Feasibility Studies and Future Plans
The feasibility study results are expected to be presented to town officials in late 2025, after which the town hopes to evaluate various development proposals from interested developers. The ongoing environmental assessments are crucial for determining the timeline for redevelopment, as additional soil testing and clean-up efforts will be conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address potential contamination issues stemming from past mill operations.
In conjunction with the redevelopment of the former mill site, a separate project named Pacific Place is also underway. This new initiative includes plans for apartments, retail space, and a restaurant, with construction projected to begin in 2026 and conclude by late 2027. The Pacific Place development will feature an 18,500-square-foot footprint, comprising eight apartments on the second floor and eight shops plus a restaurant on the first floor.
Economic Development and Community Impact
The Lyman Town Council acknowledges that they may consider dividing the former mill property into two parcels for distinct development opportunities. The combined redevelopment efforts are anticipated to invigorate the downtown area, generating economic growth through increased residential and commercial activity. Town officials express confidence in the future development potential of the site and its ability to bolster the local economy.
The intent behind revamping the former mill area is not merely to develop new structures but also to preserve the historic character of the remaining buildings. By addressing the current state of the site, which has been described as an eyesore, Lyman aims to create a vibrant community focal point that both honors its past and serves its future.
Conclusion
Through careful planning and community engagement, Lyman’s redevelopment of the Pacific Mills site is positioned to serve as a catalyst for the town’s growth. With the intended mix of residential and retail spaces, along with enhanced green areas, these projects promise to bring new life to a historically significant part of the community while paving the way for a revitalized economic landscape by 2027.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Redevelopment Initiative Set to Transform Spartanburg
Transformation of Spartanburg with Project Core
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Lyman’s Former Pacific Mills Site Set for Redevelopment by 2027
- Wikipedia: Mill Town
- WSPA: Environmental Testing Underway at Abandoned Mill Site in Lyman
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Environmental Science
- Post and Courier: Mixed-Use Lyman Development Halted
- Google Search: Lyman Mill Redevelopment
- Post and Courier: Spartanburg County Town Seeks Developers
- Google News: Spartanburg County Mill
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