Irmo, South Carolina, August 12, 2025
News Summary
The Irmo Town Council has approved a 64-acre rezoning request for the Water Walk mixed-use development, which includes 550 residential units and 150,000 square feet of commercial space. The decision, made amidst community concerns regarding increased traffic and the character of the town, marks a significant shift in Irmo’s development landscape. Developers are required to conduct environmental studies and provide updates throughout the project, which will feature a mix of housing options, including rental single-family homes and senior living apartments.
Irmo, South Carolina — Town Council Greenlights Water Walk Development Amid Controversy
The Town of Irmo has approved a rezoning request for a 64-acre property at the intersection of Dreher Shoals Road, Muskrat Run, and Salem Church Road, paving the way for the controversial Water Walk mixed-use development. This decision, made at a Town Council meeting on October 15, 2024, will see the construction of nearly 550 residential units and 150,000 square feet of commercial space along the picturesque Lake Murray shoreline.
The approval faced significant backlash from Irmo residents, many of whom voiced concerns about the potential for increased traffic and a shift away from the town’s traditional low-density community structure. Residents expressed a strong desire for growth restrictions during the approval process, claiming that they had not encountered anyone in favor of high-density developments. The Town Council, however, highlighted that the property was previously zoned for approximately 700 residential units and a portion of commercial space, allowing for the development under existing zoning regulations.
The final approval not only confirmed the rezoning but also established a partnership with developers Material Capital Partners. Under the terms of the agreement, the developers are required to provide periodic updates throughout the construction phases and are committed to completing 30,000 square feet of commercial space within the first four years.
Details of the Development
The Water Walk project will feature a diverse mix of housing types to cater to different segments of the community. The proposed housing units consist of:
- 145 single-family homes available for rent
- 220 senior living apartments and cottages for rent
- 135 single-family homes offered for sale
Despite the approval, developers will need to conduct rigorous physical and environmental studies of the site within the next 18 months before proceeding with the purchase of the land and commencing construction. Additionally, the town will now mandate that traffic studies be carried out by its own engineers rather than by the developers, aiming to better manage the impact of the new development on existing infrastructure and traffic congestion.
Community Concerns and Town’s Response
Irmo Town Council’s decision reflects a broader challenge faced by local governments as they navigate rapid growth and infrastructure strain. Council members pointed out that while the town strives to manage growth sustainably, there is limited land available for new development, exacerbating existing traffic issues. The approval process included two readings intended to allow for community input and to address various concerns raised by local residents.
As Irmo moves forward with the Water Walk project, town leaders will continue to engage with the community to ensure that development aligns with the needs and values of existing residents. It remains to be seen how the new development will impact the character of Irmo in the years to come.
FAQ
- What is the Water Walk mixed-use development?
- The Water Walk is a planned development in Irmo that will include approximately 550 residential units and 150,000 square feet of commercial space, located along the Lake Murray shoreline.
- Why was the development controversial?
- Many residents expressed concerns about increased traffic and the potential change in the town’s character from a low-density community to one that accommodates higher-density housing.
- What types of housing will be included in the Water Walk project?
- The project will feature 145 single-family homes for rent, 220 senior living apartments and cottages for rent, and 135 single-family homes for sale.
- What are the developers required to do after the approval?
- Developers must present periodic updates on the project and complete at least 30,000 square feet of commercial space within four years. They are also required to conduct environmental and physical studies of the site within 18 months.
- How will traffic studies be handled in relation to this development?
- The Town of Irmo has changed its law to require traffic studies to be conducted by the town instead of independently by developers, aiming to better manage growth impacts on infrastructure.
Key Features of Water Walk Development
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Dreher Shoals Road, Muskrat Run, and Salem Church Road |
| Size | 64 acres |
| Residential Units | 550 |
| Commercial Space | 150,000 square feet |
| Types of Housing | 145 single-family homes for rent, 220 senior living apartments and cottages for rent, 135 single-family homes for sale |
| Commercial Commitment | 30,000 square feet within 4 years |
| Environmental Studies Deadline | 18 months |
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Irmo Moves to Annex Land for New Development
- The State: Irmo Development News
- WIS TV: Controversial Irmo Development Moves Forward
- Wikipedia: Irmo, South Carolina
- Post and Courier: Irmo Development Controversy
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
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