FOREST ACRES, S.C. — As the City of Forest Acres moves closer to its demolition next year, the Richland Mall redevelopment plan continues to make progress behind the scenes.
The private company, Southeastern, is taking over the majority of the project which will feature a mixed-use development with housing, a park, as well as space for retail and restaurants.
The City of Forest Acres now owns part of the mall property which they plan to turn into a park.
Although the majority of the project costs will be taken on by the private developer, the city of Forest Acres is finding the funds for their part of the mall property -- and that's where state representative Heather Bauer comes in.
"People are very excited, including myself, to see what is a very sore spot for the City of Forest Acres and Columbia, and District 75, to get new life breathed into it," Bauer said with a smile.
Representative Bauer is hoping a few million dollars in the state's budget can go toward the redevelopment.
"I was able to help secure $2 million to help finalize plans and start the park and dog park for the citizens of Forest Acres and those in the greater Columbia area," Bauer stated.
The City of Forest Acres says it is thankful for the help, and that the $2 million would help "offset some costs for the city on the development of the park".
The funding has not been fully approved just yet. It still has to go across Governor Henry McMaster's desk to be signed.