Rock Hill Set for Major Revitalization as Sale of Historic Newspaper Site Advances

Rock Hill Set for Exciting Developments as Property Sale Advances

Rock Hill is poised for significant transformations with the potential for construction at the site of a historic newspaper building. The city recently approved an amendment to a sale agreement with Charlotte-based real estate investment firm White Point, bringing new life to the former Herald site located at 132 W. Main St..

Key Details of the Agreement

During a city council meeting held on Monday night, Mayor John Gettys reported that White Point purchased the abandoned newspaper building, along with over 5 acres of land, three years ago for approximately $1.6 million. The agreement now includes the city’s sale of an additional seven parcels located along White Street, expanding the development possibilities. “The deal is in hand, but there are still a few items to be negotiated,” Gettys noted.

A closing on the property sale is anticipated before the next city council meeting, scheduled for December 9.

Herald Site’s Transformation

The site, which has been a staple of the community for generations, has been vacant since the Herald’s operations were relocated to another site on Main Street in 2019. Plans for redevelopment initially included upscale senior living options, but those were delayed due to titling issues related to nearby railroad spurs. White Point has since taken over the redevelopment efforts, aiming to build more than 300 apartments at the site, including a commitment to make 10% of those units available as workforce housing for critical professions like police officers, firefighters, and teachers.

Features and Amenities Planned

The redevelopment plan retains several features from earlier proposals, including a parking deck and a pedestrian bridge extending across Dave Lyle Boulevard. This pedestrian-friendly connection would link residents to downtown restaurants and shops, enhancing community accessibility. City attorney Paul Dillingham confirmed that negotiations diligently focused on preserving these key features.

Other Ongoing Developments

The Herald site isn’t the only area in Rock Hill currently undergoing transformation. During the same city council meeting, officials greenlit the abandonment of a right-of-way easement on Anderson Road to make way for a new auto business. Initial plans for the location included a Gerber Automotive site, although it may ultimately serve as a repair or collision center near the Pep Boys and Aldi stores at Cherry Road.

Additionally, the Tuttle Company has submitted another application for a new project at 635 Dave Lyle Blvd. This plan involves developing a manufacturing site and warehouse for components used in wastewater treatment. If approved, the project would feature a new 16,000-square-foot building, further adding to the economic dynamism in the area.

Future Outlook

With the changes and new projects on the horizon, Rock Hill is gearing up for a brighter future. The city is actively working to embrace new developments that promise to enrich the community and provide essential services to its residents. As negotiations continue and projects move forward, residents remain optimistic about the potential revitalization of their downtown and surrounding areas.

In summary, Rock Hill is entering a new phase of growth and development, signaled by the impending finalization of the Herald property sale and other exciting projects in the pipeline.