Exciting Development News for Greenville!
Greenville recently saw some significant updates regarding local development during the Design Review Board’s meeting on September 26. The board enthusiastically approved the site plan and massing for the first phase of the highly anticipated Mosaic mixed-use development by Saint Capital LLC. This project is set to bring a vibrant new life to the neighborhood, and we can’t wait to see it unfold!
What’s in Phase One?
The first phase of the Mosaic project will consist of three impressive five-story mixed-use buildings placed on a 2.6-acre plot along Academy Street. Excitingly, this initial phase will provide around 231 residential apartment units for the community. But that’s not all; there’s more in store!
Future Plans
As for the second phase of the project, the plan includes building approximately 60 townhomes. These additions will further enhance the neighborhood and offer even more housing options. Notably, around 20% of these residential units will be reserved as affordable housing, catering to families earning up to 40% of the area’s median income and higher. This initiative makes Mosaic the first project to take advantage of the Greenville Development Code’s height and density bonuses aimed at creating affordable housing.
Commercial Space and Community Features
In addition to residential offerings, Mosaic will also provide about 19,000 square feet of commercial space, including plans for an urban grocery store or market located right at the corner of Academy and McCall Street. This is sure to bring convenience straight to the residents’ doorstep!
One exciting feature of the development is an outdoor public plaza positioned at the center of the buildings. This plaza will be accessible to both residents and commercial users, fostering a strong sense of community and providing a lovely space for gatherings and activities.
Parking Plans
For those driving in, the development will include two levels of underground parking with 379 parking spaces. The new parking garage entrance will be situated on a newly approved street called Mosaic Drive, which was officially sanctioned by the city’s Planning Commission back in August.
Community Input and Concerns
During the meeting, local residents voiced some concerns regarding potential traffic impacts the project might have on the neighborhood. In response, city staff assured attendees that the city’s engineering team will conduct a thorough traffic impact study for the project. Should any changes to the site plan or massing be required based on that study, the project will return to the board for another review.
In a nod to community input, the developer will collaborate with two Design Review Board members to assess how the five-story buildings transition to the existing cottage-style homes on nearby McCall and Calhoun streets. Together, they will explore whether a further step back between the buildings is necessary or if alternative architectural techniques can be utilized.
Another Major Project: Greenville Gateway
Scott Johnston from Johnston Design Group explained that the objective of Greenville Gateway’s design is to create a noticeable sense of arrival for visitors entering downtown Greenville. An eye-catching element of the design includes a 29-story window column rising into a spire that will be internally illuminated.
Additionally, the development plans to use screened above-ground parking structures that will feature perforated metal paneling tinted to reflect the beautiful rolling Blue Ridge Mountains. Overall, the board is enthusiastic about returning for a final review of the project’s landscaping and architectural lighting.
With both the Mosaic and Greenville Gateway projects coming to life, it’s evident that Greenville is in for a bright and exciting future. Stay tuned for further updates as these developments progress!
