Rock Hill, October 18, 2025
News Summary
Rock Hill is considering the redevelopment of an abandoned storefront that has been vacant for five years. Southern Street Development purchased the property for $190,000, aiming to revitalize the historic site dating back to 1947. The building, in poor condition, has served various businesses over the years. Plans include converting the first floor into office space while adding a second floor. The City Council’s first reading to designate the building as abandoned is approved, with a final vote expected soon, raising hopes for economic growth in the area.
Rock Hill Considers Redevelopment for Abandoned Storefront
An abandoned storefront at the corner of East White Street and South Charlotte Avenue in Rock Hill is being considered for redevelopment. The property was purchased by Southern Street Development in February for $190,000, a significant move aimed at revitalizing a site that has been vacant for five years. The building has deteriorated over time, featuring shattered or missing windows and a charred interior.
With nearly 80 years of history dating back to 1947, the building has served various tenants, including businesses such as a sewing store, an accountant, gift shops, a photography studio, and a candy store. Most recently, the site was occupied by Sisters Decor until 2020 when city services were cut off. The site also showcases a faded advertisement for Hallman Petroleum Company, which operated from 1960 to 1964.
The building qualifies for state tax incentives through South Carolina’s Abandoned Buildings Restoration Act if the Rock Hill City Council determines it abandoned. On October 13, 2025, the City Council unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance to declare the structure as abandoned, paving the way for potential redevelopment.
Future Plans for Development
As part of the redevelopment initiative, Southern Street Development plans to convert the first floor of the building into office space, while a second floor will be added for an unspecified purpose. The development firm is collaborating with a Nashville developer to create a cohesive vision that also accounts for neighboring structures, including Sowell’s Meats.
A second reading and final vote on the ordinance designating the building as abandoned is likely to occur on October 27, 2025. The importance of state tax credits for projects like this has been emphasized, as they can significantly impact the feasibility of redevelopment projects.
Background of the Project
The decline of the building correlates with wider trends affecting commercial spaces across the nation, as many storefronts have struggled to maintain occupancy amid changing economic conditions. The redevelopment of this site aims not only to restore a piece of Rock Hill’s history but also to bring new economic opportunities to the area.
With the recent approvals and planned renovations, there is cautious optimism surrounding this project. Stakeholders believe that revitalizing this site may set a precedent for similar initiatives in the surrounding neighborhoods.
FAQ Section
What is the address of the abandoned storefront in Rock Hill?
The address of the abandoned storefront is 255 East White Street, Rock Hill.
Who purchased the abandoned storefront?
Southern Street Development purchased the derelict building and quarter-acre lot for $190,000.
How long has the storefront been vacant?
The storefront has been vacant for five years.
What was the most recent business to occupy the location?
The most recent business to occupy the location was Sisters Decor, which closed in 2020 when city services were cut off.
What is planned for the redeveloped building?
Plans for the redevelopment include an office on the first floor and adding a second floor with an unspecified purpose.
When is the final vote on the ordinance designating the building as abandoned expected?
The final vote on the ordinance designating the building as abandoned is likely to occur on October 27, 2025.
Key Features of the Redevelopment Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 255 East White Street, Rock Hill |
| Purchase Price | $190,000 |
| History of Building | Constructed in 1947, housed various businesses including a sewing store, accounting office, and candy store. |
| Current Condition | Vacant for five years, with deteriorating features. |
| Proposed Redevelopment | First floor as office space, second floor with unspecified purpose. |
| Status of Ordinance | First reading approved, final vote expected October 27, 2025. |
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Rock Hill Considers Redevelopment for Abandoned Storefront
- QC News: Rock Hill Developments Honored
- Herald Online: Rock Hill Developments Announced
- WSOC-TV: Rock Hill Development and Affordable Housing
- Post and Courier: Rock Hill Guardian Building and Andrew Jackson Hotel Redevelopment
- Wikipedia: Rock Hill, South Carolina
- Google Search: Rock Hill redevelopment
- Google Scholar: Rock Hill redevelopment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rock Hill
- Google News: Rock Hill redevelopment
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