What's Happening in Anderson, SC…

Steve Kay, who owns the Bleckley Inn along with his wife, is now planning to build a mixed-use development on South Main Street in downtown Anderson.

His plan for the project is to attract retailers and potentially residents who want to stay on a long-term basis. At the center of the building will be an open courtyard, and the building will have access from the front and the rear, where there is an existing parking lot owned by the city.

According to Jeff Gilbault, a city planner, the preliminary plans call for a building three stories in height that spans 100 feet and takes four addresses. He said that the project has been given “conceptual approval” and will improve the appearance of the site.

Gilbault added that Kay has carried out other improvements projects in the city, including expanding the inn one block from Main Street and adding a rooftop deck to it. He has also renovated what was once a bank building on East Benson Street into office space and the former Dickson Ice Cream parlor on West Benson Street.

Kay commented that the growing popularity of the Bleckley Inn suggests that pricier living spaces and more offices and shopping downtown are in demand. With the hotel acting as a venue for parties and weddings, it is the sort of place that may benefit from promotional flyer printing.