Proposal to close State Hospital gets boost

[kayell]

http://www.thestate.com/mld/thestate/7667338.htm

Columbia Mayor Bob Coble said Gov. Mark Sanford’s endorsement of closing the State Hospital campus makes it more likely redevelopment of the 178-acre tract on Bull Street could happen soon.

The coveted property, which would be by far the largest area available for development downtown, has been discussed as a site for homes, portions of the USC Research Campus and doctors’ offices.

“I think it is an absolute monumental step toward the property being available,” said Coble, who wants to see a residential development on the property. “If Sanford is behind it, I think it will happen.”

snip

There are several historic buildings on the property, including the 212,000-square-foot Babcock Building. Coble said those buildings could be folded into any redevelopment of the property.

“I think that’s what adds to the value of the property and its potential use,” Coble said.

[damnraddem]

1. Whether or not the state hospital is needed doesn't enter the equation.

Not everyone can be, or should be, deinstitutionalized; but that hasn't stopped those who want to close any and every state hospital.