Greenville Acquires Key Property for Open Space and Affordable Housing Development
In a significant step forward for urban development and preservation of green space, the city of Greenville recently acquired a 6.9-acre lot of land in the Haynie-Sirrine neighborhood. This lot, previously belonging to the Stone family, is located close to the County Square Redevelopment Project worth one billion dollars.
Revitalizing Haynie-Sirrine Neighborhood
The Haynie-Sirrine neighborhood was once a bustling community. However, development work, particularly constructing the Church Street corridor, disrupted the area, leading to its current vulnerability. The purchase of this prime property is aimed at restoring the neighborhood’s vitality and creating a more cohesive community.
Councilwoman Dorothy Dowe explained the motive behind the acquisition. “This is a neighborhood that was very vibrant many, many years ago and when the Church Street corridor was built, it basically separated the neighborhood and fractured it, and it has been vulnerable ever since,” she stated.
Addressing Issues through Comprehensive Plan
The acquisition is part of Greenville’s 20-year comprehensive plan that is designed with the dual purpose of preserving green spaces and creating affordable housing opportunities. The city council recognizes the need to strategically balance growth and preservation to maintain the quality of life in its neighborhoods.
“We can manage how much developed, the schedule of development and what density is included in that development- that would allow for growth, yes in that area, but protect the quality of life in the surrounding neighborhoods,” Dowe highlighted.
A Step toward Affordable Housing
Beyond preserving green spaces, the city also plans to utilize the newly acquired land for affordable housing. With the thriving Greenville becoming increasingly desirable over the years, this initiative aims at making housing more accessible for residents who have been living there for decades.
“We will be looking at any opportunities we can and all opportunities that we can in order to best provide the best mix and the highest use of affordable housing,” remarked Ken Gibson, City Councilman for District 3.
Funding the Project
The $10.7 million purchase will be funded through various city sources, including Greenville’s capital projects fund, parking enterprise fund, and tree fund. A vote on the approval for the land purchase is slated to occur on August 12.
Implication for Greenville’s Residents
Gibson, representing the district wherein the newly purchased lot is located, expressed hope that this project will facilitate residents previously forced out of Greenville due to rising costs to return and reclaim their place in the community.
“I hope through the purchase of this property…. through working with agencies and developers… that we are able to create opportunities so that people who otherwise would not be able to remain in Greenville or who been forced out of Greenville can come back and become a part of our community.” Gibson concluded, visualizing a more inclusive future for Greenville.
