Rock Hill, South Carolina, is undergoing a significant transformation with a $60 million project set to revitalize the downtown area. The ambitious development will replace the former Rock Hill Herald building with a vibrant hub for living, working, and playing. This project, part of the Knowledge Park Action Plan, aims to create opportunities for all residents and bridge the gap between the city’s past and its future.
From Newspaper Legacy to Modern Living
The old Rock Hill Herald building, a landmark for decades, has stood empty for years. Its faded lettering serves as a reminder of the city’s history and the community’s connection to the newspaper. While the digital age has rendered the physical building obsolete, the city is committed to honoring its legacy by creating a space that serves the community in new ways.
A Vision for a Vibrant Downtown
The new development, spearheaded by White Point Co-Founder Jay Levell, will address a critical need in the downtown area: living space. While Rock Hill boasts ample work and entertainment options, residential opportunities have lagged behind. This project seeks to fill that void, creating a cohesive downtown experience where residents can live, work, and play within walking distance.
“It’s really about taking what’s here, this is the hole in the donut, and accentuating everything around it,” Levell stated. The development will incorporate residential units, retail spaces, and restaurants, fostering a thriving community within the heart of Rock Hill.
A Multi-Faceted Development with Community at its Core
Beyond residential units, the project will feature a variety of amenities designed to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Plans include playgrounds, an amphitheater, open green spaces, and a substantial parking deck with a potential pedestrian bridge across Dave Lyle Boulevard. These features aim to create a dynamic and welcoming environment for all.
Rock Hill Mayor John Gettys emphasized the importance of inclusivity, stating, “We take this facility and make sure we are creating opportunities for all people in Rock Hill to take advantage of all the prosperity and the opportunities that are here.” This commitment to community underscores the project’s broader goal of revitalizing the entire downtown area, extending all the way to Winthrop University.
Looking Towards the Future
The project is slated to begin with remediation of the existing Herald building within 30 days, with a projected completion date in 2024. This ambitious undertaking promises to breathe new life into downtown Rock Hill, transforming the site of a former newspaper into a vibrant symbol of the city’s future. The development represents a significant investment in the community, fostering economic growth and creating a more connected and engaging urban environment.
