Blythewood leaders and residents raise concerns and plan for infrastructure readiness as Scout Motors’ plant promises 4,000 jobs and potential population growth.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A new Scout Motors manufacturing plant in Blythewood is projected to bring 4,000 jobs to the area, but local officials and residents are raising concerns about the town’s ability to handle the influx of new residents.
Blythewood Mayor Sloan Griffin said his top priority is preparing the town’s infrastructure to accommodate growth.
“I do welcome those additional families into our Blythewood community,” Griffin said. “My concern is our infrastructure, and that’s going to stay on the top of my list.”
Residents have voiced concerns regarding a proposed 20-acre development, including 300 apartment units. One resident took to social media to share that they had spoken with the Richland County Planning Commission about the project.
“With the concerns from residents about the 300 apartments, I received a few phone calls, but I read …