A makeover that would affect three cities may soon be in the works. Several Midlands leaders are joining forces to re-energize an area their cities all share. It may lead to big business, but some say not so fast.
The three city mayors are coming together to tackle one project. The leaders want to revitalize the area off Highway 302 and I-26.
"This is the corridor from the airport," said Cayce Mayor Elise Partin. "And someone new to the Midlands coming in, this would be their first impression. And first impressions make a difference."
The Mayors of Cayce, Springdale and West Columbia say the remodeling would include landscaping and sidewalks. Officials say the renovations could also enhance the local economy.
"It's very important because of the economic development opportunity on whoever may come here," said Springdale Mayor Pat Smith.
This could include new businesses to the region. The trio of leaders are rallying for federal dollars to pay for the project.
"It is a Midlands opportunity," said County Council Chair Debbie Summers. "And we're not inventing the wheel here. Collaboration has been very successful in other parts of the state."
Officials say this proposed project is all about weeding out the area's neglect and planting a new standard of excellence.
"This project is important not just for the first impressions that it makes, but also for the possibility of job creations," said Partin.
"These are going to be temporary jobs and it's also going to be government creating government jobs," said S.C Policy Council Spokesman Jameson Taylor. "And this is also a case of government lobbying government for more money."
Taylor says overall it's bad timing to create elective projects.
"We're not talking about free money," said Taylor.
The amount it might take to get the project rolling isn't clear.
The city officials have contacted Senator Lindsay Graham. They say he's onboard with the proposal. However, the project is still in its infancy stage.
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