by Emily Smith
The expansion of Carolina Forest Boulevard is projected for this upcoming May— and the improved design will correspond with the advent of another new project for this up-and-coming part of the Grand Strand.
Because the Carolina Forest community has seen such exponential growth in recent years, developers have set their eyes on opening more businesses in the area. Despite the challenges of 2020, there was a 33% increase in new businesses at the end of last year in comparison to 2019. This is a huge benchmark number, and testimony to the resiliency and optimism of those who call the Grand Strand home.
Across from the South Atlantic Bank, where Carolina Forest Boulevard intersects with River Oaks Drive, there is roughly forty-six acres of mixed-use land available for development. In the fall of 2020, plans were drafted for a new shopping strip to be built in this area; it’s to be called the Marketplace at the Mill.
This new strip mall will spread over 66,400 square feet, and be divided into 1,200 square foot parcels for individual commercial businesses to set up residence. The new space will also include room for a grocery store.
This end of Carolina Forest has already seen much expansion and change— from the opening of International Drive to the influx of new restaurants and eateries.
Currently, no timeline exists publicly for the Marketplace at the Mill. We can all be sure of one thing, however: this neighborhood is growing bigger and the best is yet to come.
