A Mauldin landmark: here’s what inspired BridgeWay Station

A Mauldin landmark is set to open its doors next month, bringing a touch of Old World charm to the growing city of Mauldin. BridgeWay Station, a project of Hughes Investments Inc., has been inspired by the historic building styles of Old Europe, particularly Italy. The development is the brainchild of Phil Hughes, President of Hughes Investments, who has spent almost 40 years acquiring land in the vicinity of Via Corso Avenue in Mauldin.

The initial plan for the land was to create an industrial park, but a sewer moratorium put those plans on hold. However, this setback turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It prompted Hughes and his team to rethink their strategy and recognize the potential for a new town center in Mauldin.

Speaking about the location, Hughes said, “This specific location is so well-suited for a high-quality development where people can not only work but also live, shop, enjoy a good bite to eat, have a beer, relax and enjoy their community. We hope that BridgeWay truly enhances the visual appeal of the surroundings but also contributes to a sense of identity and pride within the community.”

To bring their vision to life, Hughes Investments incorporated many relics hand-selected and imported directly from Italy. They also used reclaimed mill brick from local mills, including Buffalo Mill in Union County, Laurens Mill, Joanna Mill in Laurens County, and Browns Mill in Concord. The commitment and craftsmanship of the masons were crucial in capturing the authenticity of the old-world charm.

The surrounding area is experiencing significant growth, with high-traffic volume on Interstate 385 and growth trends in Mauldin, Five Forks, Simpsonville, Fountain Inn, and the entire region. This market data gave Hughes confidence that BridgeWay Station would resonate with many residents in the expanding area.

The city of Mauldin has been instrumental in bringing BridgeWay Station to life. Hughes expressed his appreciation for their collaboration and support, describing them as more than just a bureaucratic entity but as a true partner and collaborator throughout the process.

Building BridgeWay Station came with its own set of challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on construction and the size of the first phase of development. However, the most important lesson learned, according to Hughes, was the importance of dealing with good people.

Despite these challenges, the office space at BridgeWay Station is fully leased, and the retail tenants are 100% leased, with only one space remaining. The official grand opening of BridgeWay Station is set for next month, marking the completion of Phase I of the project.

Looking ahead, Hughes is focused on improving and shaping an exciting new addition for upcoming phases of the project. He is passionate about preserving and creating quality growth in his hometown.

With its timeless, Old World architectural style and its focus on creating a vibrant community hub, BridgeWay Station is poised to become a beloved landmark in Mauldin.