USC’s $1B development plan for 900 acres near stadium moves forward

The University of South Carolina is advancing a plan to spur development of nearly 900 acres of land near the Congaree River and Williams-Brice Stadium by issuing a formal Request for Proposal (RFP).

The RFP seeks to identify private development partners who wish to pursue a comprehensive land use agreement with the university, according to a news release. The RFP was issued June 18.

The eventual agreement could bring new recreational, dining, lodging and retail options to the area, which includes 885 acres of undeveloped USC-owned property adjacent to the Congaree River, west of the existing Long Family Football Operations Facility, and 12 additional acres near Williams-Brice Stadium.

Under a plan announced last year, revenue generated from leasing agreements can be used to fund major improvements to the stadium and surrounding area, the release stated.

“Future private commercial development on leased land would create new employment opportunities and make the Midlands a more vibrant place to live, work and recreate,” the university stated in the release.

Related: USC unveils $1B ‘game changer’ project to develop area around football stadium

“Issuing this Request for Proposals is the next critical step in a lengthy process,” USC Athletics Director Ray Tanner said in the release. “We are thankful to state leaders for supporting our vision to transform this underutilized region of the Midlands to benefit our fans and residents alike.”

Once a qualified development partner or partners is selected through a fair and competitive evaluation process, the ultimate scope of the project will be defined by the set of individual development agreements, the release stated. All agreements must be submitted to the South Carolina Fiscal Accountability Authority for approval prior to execution. The project will not include moving Williams-Brice Stadium from its current location or acquiring and developing the State Fairgrounds.

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