Newberry, South Carolina, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Newberry, South Carolina is entering a growth phase, prompting local council discussions on a new residential master plan to accommodate expansion while preserving natural resources. The plan, currently under review, aims to provide developers with flexibility and protect neighborhood character. Council officials aim for public involvement and transparency throughout the planning process. Additionally, the city has made progress in urban planning with a comprehensive plan and is set to update land development codes. Residents raised concerns about traffic and proposed developments during the council meeting.
Newberry, South Carolina is facing a significant growth phase, which has instigated discussions among local council members regarding a new residential master plan aimed at accommodating this expansion. During a council meeting on Tuesday, August 19, officials examined the proposed plan, which is designed to provide developers with greater flexibility while simultaneously preserving natural resources and maintaining the character of neighborhoods.
Newberry County Council Chairman Robert Shealy addressed the necessity for this plan, noting the expectation of continued growth in the county and the vital role residential development plays in supporting industrial expansion. As of now, the proposed master plan is still under review by the Joint Planning Commission.
If the plan receives approval, the council will engage in a series of work sessions and readings, a process that is estimated to take around three months. This initiative seeks to enhance the county’s oversight of developer activities, ensuring developments align with community needs and environmental considerations.
Throughout the planning stages, public input will be encouraged, allowing residents to share feedback and engage in the decision-making process until the plan is ready for final approval. Transparency and community involvement are significant priorities for the council during this phase.
The Newberry City Commission also made strides in urban planning by unanimously approving a comprehensive plan in a regular meeting held on Monday. This comprehensive plan was shaped by early public engagement through open houses conducted in the summer of 2023, followed by a series of hearings and workshops that contributed to its refinement.
While reviewing the comprehensive plan, FloridaCommerce submitted a single comment in December 2024, prompting further revisions that led to the document’s final adoption. CHW Consultants developed critical sections of the planning report, focusing on future land use, traffic circulation, and housing, while city staff dedicated efforts to recreation, conservation, and economic development.
Another significant development includes Newberry’s plans to revise its land development codes for the first time since the early 1990s. This overhaul is expected to be completed by early 2027. Additionally, the city has entered into a $134,000 agreement with Publix for the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of Newberry Lane and State Road 26, although discussions with the Florida Department of Transportation regarding the design of the project have faced challenges.
Assistant City Manager Jeff Wicker updated the council on ongoing residential developments, highlighting projects such as a new subdivision on Hillbrook Lane and the Parkview Estates project. Furthermore, a new petition received approval to annex a 13-acre property on Pender Ridge Road, which has potential for a 40-site housing development. However, residents expressed concerns over increased traffic resulting from new developments during the council meeting.
Additionally, the council approved initial readings for ordinances regarding the construction of container homes and the appointment of an animal control officer. Other new business included authorizing alcohol sales in designated areas for an upcoming event and proclaiming April as Fair Housing Month. In response to the recent Census, the city is also launching a redistricting process to ensure equitable representation for its constituents.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the new residential master plan in Newberry County?
The new residential master plan aims to accommodate ongoing growth in Newberry County by providing developers with flexibility while protecting natural resources and neighborhood character.
How long will it take for the residential master plan to be approved?
The approval process involves work sessions and readings by the council, which could take about three months if the plan is approved.
What major developments are currently happening in Newberry?
Major developments include a new subdivision on Hillbrook Lane, the Parkview Estates project, and the annexation of a property on Pender Ridge Road for a potential 40-site housing development.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Residential Master Plan | A plan to accommodate growth while protecting resources and community character. |
| Public Input | Residents can provide feedback during the planning process. |
| Comprehensive Plan Approval | Unanimously approved in a city commission meeting. |
| Land Development Codes Update | Revisions slated to be completed by early 2027. |
| Traffic Signal Agreement | $134,000 agreement for a new traffic signal installation. |
| Ongoing Developments | Multiple residential projects and a new annexation for housing. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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GE Appliances Invests Over $3 Billion in U.S. Manufacturing
Dr. Andrew Peterson Appointed Vice President of Student Affairs at Presbyterian College
Industrial Real Estate Competition Rises in South Carolina
Chapin Elementary School Begins Construction on New Classroom Wing
Newberry City Council Discusses Urban Forest Master Plan
Additional Resources
- WLTX: Newberry County Residential Master Plan
- Wikipedia: Newberry County, South Carolina
- Main Street Daily News: Newberry Comprehensive Plan Update
- Google Search: Newberry County residential development
- Gainesville.com: Alachua County Plans for West End Community Park
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Planning
- Newberry Observer: City Council Updates on Development
- Google News: Newberry City Council development
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
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