Neighborhood - Columbia SC

Judge's Ruling Favors Neighborhood Association's Stance on S. Saluda Apartment Modifications

Hollywood-Rose Hill Neighborhood Association is quite pleased with the Circuit Court's ruling this week (June 2, 2026) affirming City of Columbia's application of the Intensification sections of the UDO in the South Saluda Apartments issue. We appreciate Judge McGee's acceptance of the Amicus Curiae brief that we filed with the Court.

Members of our neighborhood council are wondering what this outcome actually means for the South Saluda Property owners. HRHNA firmly believes that the property owners should be required to restore the demolished stairwells to their original condition, before the City issues any additional building permits for interior renovations of the apartment floor plans, or any other work on the property.

National Historic Register Program

A National Register program is different than existing City programs (architectural districts and protection areas, also called Community Character overlays). The major benefit of being designated a National Register Historic District is that any property in the area could seek Bailey Bill support for exterior renovations. This is an optional step each homeowner could solicit - NOT a requirement or restriction for any planned renovations. The Bailey bill will freeze property taxes for 20 years and IS transferrable to subsequent owners for the 20 year time span. If the Bailey Bill is not used, there are no exterior renovation requirements or limitations from being in a National Register Historic District.

As of January 2026, HRH has applied for funding to support the required research submitted to be considered a National Register district. That funding, if awarded, combined with neighborhood contributions should allow this process to start later in 2026 or early 2027.

Information about the HRH boundaries, descriptions of the various programs and a list of National Register properties in Richland County can be accessed here.

Statement on Dropping of Lawsuit

Among Three Neighborhoods and the City and USC