News Summary
Rock Hill is undergoing a remarkable transformation with the redevelopment of the Baxter Mill into a mixed-use space called The Thread. This $100 million investment will feature entertainment venues, dining options, and office space. The first attraction, Roar, is set to open in February 2025, promising fun for families. With an emphasis on community needs, The Thread aims to create a vibrant environment that honors the area’s history while embracing modern amenities.
Rock Hill Welcomes a New Era with The Thread!
Rock Hill is buzzing with excitement as the former Baxter Mill transforms into a dynamic mixed-use space. Known as The Thread, this 400,000-square-foot redevelopment is turning the page for the historic textile mill that last operated in 1998 and faced significant fire damage in 2009. With an impressive $100 million investment from the Charlotte-based Keith Corp., the project is finally breathing new life into the Knowledge Park district.
A Long-Awaited Transformation
The journey to renovate The Thread began officially in 2018, but like many projects, it faced unexpected challenges during the pandemic. Despite the delays, construction is now in full swing, and the first wave of businesses is ready to open their doors. In February 2025, families were thrilled to welcome Roar, an exciting family entertainment venue, which kicked things off on February 19. With features like Duckpin Bowling, Twisted Putter mini-golf, and a variety of arcade games, it promises fun for everyone.
A Taste of Something New
But that’s not all! Coming this spring, gourmet bagel lovers can rejoice as Sully’s Steamers prepares to unveil its 14th location at The Thread. Known for its delicious steamed bagel sandwiches, this spot is sure to become a favorite for a quick, tasty meal.
Bringing Community and Culture Together
The Thread aims to invigorate the area by offering affordable dining options and family-friendly entertainment, responding directly to feedback collected from community surveys. Residents wanted more places to gather and enjoy, and this redevelopment project is stepping up to meet those needs.
More Than Just Fun and Food
The first phase of The Thread is also making strides to complement the community’s professional landscape. Featuring 150,000 square feet of office space, it has brought in Springs Creative as the anchor tenant, utilizing 30,000 square feet of this impressive space. This is just the starting point, with ongoing construction plans to expand with more retail options and apartments in future phases. The vision here is to foster a live-work-play environment, attracting residents and students alike from nearby Winthrop University and York Tech.
Honoring the Past While Embracing the Future
In collaboration with Springs Creative and the architecture firm Little, the Keith Corp. is ensuring that the renovation honors the historic significance of the mill. By incorporating elements from the original structure into the design, they are striking a balance between preservation and modern utility. The community can expect a space that speaks to its historic roots while meeting contemporary needs.
The Bigger Picture
The Thread isn’t just a local project; it’s a crucial piece of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing downtown Rock Hill. By enriching the area with various entertainment options and dining establishments, this redevelopment works to create a lively atmosphere that supports community engagement and growth. It’s exciting to see how this transformation will contribute to a revitalized Rock Hill, where residents and visitors can enjoy all that the downtown scene has to offer.
The Future Awaits
The Thread’s revival of the Baxter Mill marks a significant milestone for Rock Hill, promising to breathe new life into the area, offering opportunities for both residents and businesses alike. With vibrant entertainment options and a focus on community needs, this redevelopment serves as a beacon of progress. Stay tuned, because the best is yet to come in Rock Hill!
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Arcade Roar at The Thread
- Wikipedia: Rock Hill, South Carolina
- Connect CRE: Rock Hill’s The Thread Lands Tenants
- Google Search: Rock Hill The Thread
- Herald Online: A Taste of Something New at The Thread
- Google Scholar: Rock Hill transformations
- Daily Kos: Community Discussions
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Commercial Search: Textile Mill Transformation
- Google News: Rock Hill The Thread
