Columbia City Council approved annexation, future land-use and zoning map amendments for properties on Rosewood Drive to enable a proposed development of roughly 71 townhomes on land owned by the Seawell family.

George McCutcheon, speaking for the Seawell family, described an estimated project value in the range of $44 million to $49 million and said the design would deliver townhome product aimed at young professionals and downtown workers. He said the project was proposed in lieu of a larger student-housing plan and that it would contribute tax roll value. “We had looked previously at 400 student housing and decided against that and would rather this be for young professionals,” McCutcheon said.

Steve McNair of Palmetto Alliance Property Group, who described similar work in other cities, said the product is a three-story, walk-up townhome type aimed to “help with density” near downtown. Council discussion recognized the concept-stage nature of annexation and zoning approvals; councilmembers noted infrastructure and pedestrian improvements (sidewalks, regrading Olympia Avenue) as potential next steps if the project moves forward.

Ending: Council approved the annexation and zoning amendments on a recorded roll; project proponents said they will continue infrastructure discussions with city staff as the project advances through plan review.