Greenville’s Potomac Square: A New Vision for Community Retail
When you walk through the ever-evolving landscape of Greenville, it’s hard not to notice the buzz surrounding the Potomac Square shopping center, formerly known as the Terrace Shopping Center. After recently undergoing demolitions that left just rubble behind, the future of this well-known site is taking shape, and many are eager to see what’s next.
The New Look
The owner of the Potomac Square shopping center has big dreams for this property. According to their plans, the once-thriving strip mall will become a collection of low-intensity retail storefronts aimed at serving the daily needs of nearby residents. Exciting, right? The vision has been labeled the Augusta Gateway — a charming retail center designed with a village-like atmosphere in mind.
Picture this: six new buildings that can be subdivided into various shops, offering a mix of food, personal, and professional services. Plus, there’s even talk about attracting a boutique grocery store to anchor the space. The previous tenant, a furniture store, has moved out, leaving a vast 23,000-square foot area ready for a new beginning.
Balancing Act: Community Needs vs. Growth
However, while this redevelopment presents an exciting opportunity, it’s not without its challenges. Many locals are expressing concerns that the changes might accelerate shifts in the neighborhood’s racial and economic make-up. This area lies at the crossroads of two very different Greenville communities — one that’s more affluent and predominantly White, and the other that’s lower-income and mostly Black.
Princella Lee-Bridges, a respected voice in the community, emphasizes the need for balance. As she puts it, “A grocery store is needed, but a boutique-style store might not be affordable for many neighbors.” That’s a valid point, and one that many are rallying around. Residents want to see development that doesn’t just cater to newcomers but also supports those already living here.
Concerns Over Housing
Housing has emerged as a critical topic as well. While the developer is currently focused on retail, there is widespread recognition that affordable housing is in dire need. The population trends show a decline in the Black population in nearby Pleasant Valley since the 1990s, which raises important questions about inclusive development as the city’s demographics shift.
Lee-Bridges points out that with rising property values, there’s a significant risk that many long-time residents might be pushed out as new, higher-end developments take the spotlight. This has created a sense of urgency in the community, as they hope for housing projects that allow existing residents to thrive alongside newcomers.
A Glimpse into the Future
Interestingly, the Augusta-Mauldin intersection has not seen meaningful development in decades, but the winds of change are blowing. Back in 2023, city officials designated this intersection as a high-density “node” meant for mixed-use development. This is exciting news for anyone following Greenville’s revitalization efforts.
Plus, in a show of the changing times, a Starbucks drive-thru was recently approved nearby—the first major development in this area in over 20 years! This, combined with increased public and private investments, signals a new chapter for Greenville as people flock to all corners of this vibrant city.
The Road Ahead
As demolition dust settles and plans unfold, it’s anyone’s guess how the transformation will play out. Will the Potomac Square emerge as a beloved local hotspot, welcoming neighbors and businesses alike? Or will it veer towards something more exclusive?
Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the community is watching closely, ready to ensure that their voices are heard as their neighborhood undergoes this significant change. So, as the days go by and the landscape continues to shift, let’s keep an eye on Potomac Square’s journey—because community matters now more than ever.
