Lexington County, September 13, 2025
News Summary
Lexington County is set to review proposals for nearly 400 new homes across four developments, addressing the rapid population growth in the area. The plans include single-family homes and townhomes in Irmo, as well as a significant subdivision in Gaston, which will require substantial investment in local infrastructure. Community concerns have been raised regarding potential increases in traffic and the impact on local schools. These developments are expected to unfold over the next 6 to 10 years.
Lexington County Plans for New Housing Developments
Lexington County is considering the addition of nearly 400 new homes across four proposed developments, with plans set for review by the planning commission on September 18. These projects are part of the county’s ongoing efforts to accommodate its rapidly growing population, which has more than doubled since 1980.
Details of Proposed Developments
- Irmo Area: Two projects are proposed: one featuring 15 single-family homes and another with 10 townhomes. The first, developed by Sanford Enterprises, is on seven acres along Rocky Point Drive, while the townhomes will be located next to Saint Andrews Road. Both plans are within the Lexington-Richland 5 school district, which does not expect a significant impact on resources.
- Gaston Subdivision: This requires attention as it proposes 318 homes on 204 acres along Woodtrail Drive. Given its size, it will necessitate investment in local infrastructure, including around $2 million for school impacts and hiring approximately 40 new teachers. The subdivision is expected to contribute to more than 1,000 new homes in the Lexington 4 school district.
- Pelion Development: The proposal for 34 single-family homes will occupy 11.5 acres and is being developed by Sanford Enterprises. This subdivision is under the Lexington 1 school district, with an anticipated operational impact of $100,000.
Concurrency Review Process
Before the proposed developments can move forward, they must undergo a concurrency review process, which assesses their impact on local services, including schools and emergency services. This process was established in June 2024 to better manage growth in the area, allowing the county to ensure adequate infrastructure is in place.
Historical Context
Over the last four decades, Lexington County has experienced substantial population growth, adding over 170,000 residents. This has led to constructions, like the recent plans for a separate 600-home project east of Old Orangeburg Road and Bluff Ridge Road. Developers have already secured land for 424 single-family homes and 200 duplexes, adhering to county density regulations.
Community Concerns
Residents have voiced concerns regarding the potential increase in traffic and how these developments might affect the rural character of the region. Local school officials have mentioned that, currently, these projects may not demand a new school. However, future developments could necessitate changes in operational capacity, potentially requiring additional staff to service an expanded student body.
These developments are set to unfold in multiple phases over the next 6 to 10 years, pending the approval of the county council following the planning commission’s recommendations.
FAQs
What are the proposed housing developments in Lexington County?
When will the planning commission consider these developments?
What is the concurrency review process?
How will these developments impact local schools?
Key Features Summary
| Development Name | Location | No. of Homes | School District | Impact on Schools |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Irmo Homes | Rocky Point Drive | 15 | Lexington-Richland 5 | Minimal |
| Irmo Townhomes | Next to Saint Andrews Road | 10 | Lexington-Richland 5 | Minimal |
| Gaston Subdivision | Woodtrail Drive | 318 | Lexington 4 | $2 million; 40 new teachers |
| Pelion Development | Near Pelion | 34 | Lexington 1 | $100,000 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Irmo Town Council Approves Expansion of Water Walk Development
Irmo Town Council Considers Water Walk Development Expansion
Irmo Town Council Approves Water Walk Development
Panda Express Opens New Location in Lexington County
Lexington County Launches St. Andrews Village for Homeless Families
Columbia Breaks Real Estate Record with $9.25 Million Sale
Parker’s Kitchen Expands to Columbia Area
City Council Votes on Property Sale to Southeastern Technology Centers
Whataburger Opens New Location in Red Bank
West Columbia Plans Major Upgrades Along U.S. Highway 1
Additional Resources
- WISTV: Lexington Housing Development Progress
- Google Search: Lexington housing developments
- WLTX: Lexington County Housing Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lexington County
- The State: Lexington County Development Updates
- Google News: Lexington County housing
- WISTV: Developments Bringing Over 300 Homes
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
