Council approves first readings to fold commercial parcels into The Hive planned development; residents raise traffic concerns

On first reading, North Augusta City Council voted unanimously to rezone roughly 25.59 acres from General Commercial to Planned Development and to approve a general development plan for the 201.8-acre project known as The Hive along West Martintown Road.

Ms. Clifford (city staff) told council the action bundles parcels that historically were part of the larger planned development but remained zoned general commercial on paper. "What it will not do, it does not change anything having to do with residential housing," Ms. Clifford said, explaining that the move simply incorporates the commercial frontage into the existing PD so the developer can coordinate more efficiently with SCDOT and other agencies.

During the public comment period, resident George Stickler said he was concerned about traffic and merging on Martintown Road, calling conditions "like playing Frogger" at some intersections and warning that traffic speeds between Hammonds Pond and I-20 often exceed the posted 45 mph. Councilmembers acknowledged the concerns and pointed to existing planning work and capital funding. The mayor noted the city included about $3 million in the capital project sales tax program to help address traffic needs and referenced past east Martintown Road corridor studies that guide current planning.

Both ordinances were recommended by the Planning Commission, and council members said the zoning change and general development plan are intended to streamline approvals already contemplated by the developer.