Greenville County Addresses Eviction Crisis and Pedestrian Safety

News Summary

Greenville County rallies over 300 residents to address critical issues such as the eviction crisis and pedestrian safety. The GOAL coalition seeks solutions, including the establishment of a housing court and the adoption of a Vision Zero plan for safer streets. The Nehemiah Action event scheduled for April 10 aims to amplify voices for change and push for supportive legislation and development in the community.

Greenville County Takes Action Against Eviction Crisis and Urgent Pedestrian Safety Concerns

In a strong display of community spirit and commitment to justice, over 300 residents participated in the recent GOAL rally at the Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church in Pelzer on March 13. This event, organized by the Greenville Organized for Accountable Leadership (GOAL), brought together an interfaith coalition representing 29 local congregations united under the mission to tackle pressing issues facing Greenville County.

For months, GOAL has been diving deep into the challenges surrounding housing and transportation in the community. The rally served as a platform to unveil a series of solutions aimed at addressing these critical issues, marking the excitement for a planned Nehemiah Action event on April 10 that promises to engage even more voices in the pursuit of change.

Eviction Crisis at the Forefront

One of the primary concerns that emerged is the alarming rate of evictions affecting families in Greenville County. Participants voiced their fears that these evictions are devastating lives and putting people at risk of homelessness. GOAL has been pushing for better affordable housing options for the past two years and now plans to tackle the eviction crisis head-on.

During the upcoming Nehemiah Action, GOAL will advocate for the establishment of a housing court by 2025-2026, aimed at providing legal representation for renters at risk of eviction. This initiative is designed to offer much-needed support for tenants and equip them with the resources necessary to stand their ground.

In addition, GOAL is throwing its support behind Senate Bill 56, which proposes that judges be allowed to seal eviction records. This would allow families a fresh start, free from the stigma of previous evictions that can often hinder future housing opportunities.

Pedestrian Safety Initiative on the Radar

While the focus on evictions is urgent, GOAL is also shining a light on pedestrian safety issues in Greenville County, particularly in the Berea neighborhood along White Horse Road/U.S. Highway 25. Research has indicated that this area suffers from severe safety concerns, necessitating immediate action.

The group plans to lobby for the adoption of a Vision Zero plan, a proactive approach aimed at eradicating traffic and pedestrian fatalities in the county. This could involve a range of measures, including requesting federal funding for improved street lighting, making it safer and more pedestrian-friendly for everyone who traverses the corridor.

Exciting Developments at County Square

An important part of Greenville’s transformation is the redevelopment of County Square, a vast county-owned property that spans 37 acres. This project is anticipated to cost around one billion dollars and take approximately ten years to unfold. With its strategic proximity to beloved local landmarks like Falls Park and Fluor Field, the redevelopment is a golden opportunity to revitalize the area and foster community connections.

Officials, including the city’s Deputy City Manager, are laser-focused on ensuring that traffic impacts are minimized as the density of activities increases due to the development. The combination of residential options, public parks, and urban spaces will be essential to enhance the livability of the community, fulfilling the needs of city residents for years to come.

Collaborative Efforts for a Brighter Future

As public-private partnerships gain traction across urban developments in Greenville, the hope is to create parks and public spaces that actively respond to community needs. The successful evolution of County Square represents more than just construction; it’s about weaving a new urban tapestry that connects the community and enhances the day-to-day lives of its residents.

With strong rallies, supportive legislation, and plans for creative redevelopment, Greenville County stands at the brink of positive change that aims to alleviate housing woes and improve the safety and quality of life for every resident.

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Additional Resources

• Greenville Journal: GOAL Justice Tackles Evictions and Pedestrian Safety
• Wikipedia: Housing Crisis
• Greenville Journal: Greenville Homelessness Task Force Seeks New Solutions
• Google Search: Evictions in Greenville
• Greenville Journal: Home Again Program for Evicted Tenants