Key Points
- A new mixed-use development, the Falls Park Conference District, is planned for downtown Greenville.
- The project includes a conference center, a JW Marriott hotel, residential units, and office buildings.
- This public-private partnership has an estimated cost of more than $500 million.
- Plans show a sky bridge connecting the development to the Bowater Building, which will become the hotel.
- The development will also feature 250 multi-family housing units and a 1,250-space underground garage.
New details about the long-discussed Falls Park Conference District are available, revealing the potential layout of the mixed-use development planned in the heart of downtown Greenville.
The conference district, which was first announced in early March, includes plans for a new city conference center, hotel, underground parking lot, green space and residential units, the Greenville News previously reported. The development, which the city says will support business activity and downtown vitality, is planned for a six-acre parking lot near the Grand Bohemian Lodge.
The project is part of a public-private partnership, with an estimated price tag of more than $500 million.
Project plans show a sky bridge over Falls Street connecting with the Bowater Building in Falls Park, which will be transformed into South Carolina’s first JW Marriot, Auro Hotels announced in August.
The JW Marriott Greenville is expected to have 335 guest rooms with more than 8,800 square feet of event space, according to previous Greenville News reporting. It will have three dining options: a market and bakery, a restaurant open for lunch and dinner, and a rooftop bar and restaurant. Plans also include an outdoor terrace and a four-story atrium with window walls.
The conference center will include a “junior ballroom” and a “grand ballroom”, according to city meeting documents.
A multi-family housing development is planned at the North end of the district, along Vivian Street. Led by Hines, a global real estate investment firm, the housing development will create 250 multi-family units, which the city said will keep the area active year-round.
Two office buildings are on the east side of the development, with a 1,250 spot underground garage, according to city documents. The south end of the parcel shows park space and another unnamed tenant.
More: JW Marriott planned for $500 million Falls Park Conference District
Greenville residents can see the project plans and ask questions during the Sept. 22 project planning meeting. The drop-in style session will be 4-6 p.m. at 15 S. Main St., Suite 100.
Ruth Cronin covers Greenville County business, growth and development. Contact her at rcronin@usatodayco.com.