COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030 V O L U M E 1 - E X I S T I N G C O N D I T I O N S R E P O RT
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030 V O L U M E 1 - E X I S T I N G C O N D I T I O N S R E P O RT
Adopted December 14, 2020 Amendment (Resiliency Element Added) Adopted December 13, 2021
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS CITY COUNCIL
John Gettys, Mayor Derrick Lindsay, Ward 1 Kathy Pender, Ward 2 Kevin Sutton, Ward 3 John A. Black III, Ward 4 Nikita Jackson, Ward 5 Jim Reno, Ward 6
PLANNING COMMISSION
Randy Graham, Chair Duane Christopher, Vice Chair Keith Martens Gladys Robinson Justin Smith Shelly Goodner Nathan Mallard
PREPARED BY
Amy Jo Denton, AICP, Long Range Planner, Project Manager Alex Boyce, AICP, Long Range Planner Bill Meyer, AICP, Past-Planning & Development Director Leah Youngblood, AICP, Planning & Development Director
SPECIAL THANKS TO
Rock Hill focus group participants, citizens, and business owners for their continuous engagement and support!
TABLE OF CONTENTS Acknowledgments......................................... i Overview......................................................11 Population.....................................................19 Housing.........................................................33 Economic Development............................53 Transportation.............................................75 Community Facilities..................................97 Cultural Resources...................................141 Natural Resources....................................153 Public Health..............................................167 Land Use.....................................................179 Resiliency....................................................189 Priority Investment...................................203
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW In order to plan for the City of Rock Hill's future growth and prosperity, an
Plan was a five-year review Plan. This Comprehensive Plan Update is the ten-
assessment is conducted to understand current conditions. This assessment
year planning milestone.
is typically the first step in the Comprehensive Plan planning process. This Existing Conditions Report provides the details and findings of this assessment
A Steering Committee made up of the City's Planning Commission members,
organized by plan element. Nine of the plan elements are dictated by S.C. State
as noted in the Acknowledgments, guides the comprehensive planning process.
Statute, S.C. Code § 6-29-510(D), and the tenth, Public Health, was added by
The Existing Conditions Report is collaboratively developed by City Staff, the
the City during the Focus 2020 Comprehensive Plan process. Plan elements -
Steering Committee, and key stakeholders including -
•
Population
•
Housing and Neighborhood Representatives
•
Housing
•
Grants Division Representatives
•
Economic Development
•
Utilities and Infrastructure Providers
•
Transportation
•
Economic and Urban Development Community
•
Community Facilities
•
Commercial Development Community
•
Cultural Resources
•
Residential Development Community
•
Natural Resources
•
Recreation & Tourism Providers
•
Land Use
•
Transportation Providers
•
Priority Investment
•
Arts & Culture Representatives
•
Public Health
•
Education Providers
•
Community Wellness Providers
Volume 1 - Existing Conditions Report is a snapshot in time of 'where we
•
City of Rock Hill Staff
are today'. Thus, the report serves as a baseline of the Comprehensive Plan.
•
County & Regional Planning Staff
The examination of existing conditions is primarily facts and figures, but also includes references to pertinent regulations, plans, policies, organizations,
Comprehensive planning, and in particular visioning for the future of Rock Hill,
maps and studies. Whereas Volume II - The Vision Plan encapsulates 'where
is a deep tradition. This plan builds on those past activities and determination
we want to go'.
for Rock Hill to preserve its distinct identity while ensuring preparedness for a bright future.
By law, the City is required to review its Comprehensive Plan every five years and update it every ten. Adopted in 2015, the Focus 2020 Comprehensive VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
11
OVERVIEW
MAP 1.1 CAROLINA REGIONAL CONTEXT
Rock Hill Major Interstates Urbanized Areas Charlotte MSA Counties North & South Carolina Counties 50 Miles
12
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
OVERVIEW
Rock Hill is part of the Charlotte MSA which is made up of 7 North Carolina counties (Mecklenburg, Iredell, Rowan, Cabarrus, Union, Gaston and Lincoln) and 3 South Carolina
MAP 1.2 CHARLOTTE MSA & RING CITIES
counties (Lancaster, Chester, and York), Map 1.1. This is the largest MSA in the Carolinas and one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the country. Specifically, the 2018 List
Iredell
Of Fastest-Growing Cities In America published by Forbes using Moody’s Analytics ranks the Charlotte-Concord-
Rowan
Gastonia-Rock Hill MSA 11th in 2017 population growth and
MOORESVILLE
in 2018 projected population growth. Its location along major
KANNAPOLIS Lincoln
interstate corridors has contributed to this growth.
CONCORD Gaston
Rock Hill is one of the six ring cities within the MSA. The
GASTONIA
concept of the ring cities dates back to a late 1980's visioning
Cabarrus CHARLOTTE
campaign, Empowering the Vision (ETV), that focused on becoming the premier ring city. This concept has carried over to subsequent City planning and visioning activities because it is a good approach for assessing Rock Hill's position
York MONROE ROCK HILL
within the region and specifically among sister cities that are
Union
approximately 25 miles outside of Charlotte, Map 1.2. Chester
Lancaster
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
13
OVERVIEW
The planning area for the Comprehensive Plan Update is expanded from the
and the City’s Water & Sewer Service boundaries. The following existing
previous Focus 2020 planning area, Map1.3 - 1.4. This current planning area
conditions information is provided for both the planning area and/or the City
boundary is the outer most boundary of the Rock Hill School District #3
limits as appropriate based on the topic or element.
MAP 1.3 FOCUS 2020 PLANNING AREA
City Limits Water Bodies Focus 2020 Planning Area Roads 3 Miles
14
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
OVERVIEW
MAP 1.4 CURRENT PLANNING AREA
Water & Sewer Service Boundary Rock Hill School District Boundary
City Limits Water Bodies Current Planning Area Roads 3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
15
POPULATION
POPULATION
11
CHARLOTTE MSA
TH
Since the adoption of the Focus 2020 Comprehensive Plan, Rock Hill’s population has grown to 74,309, Table 2.1. This is a steady growth at a
FASTEST GROWING CITY
slightly stronger rate than what the Focus 2020 Plan projected - 73,000 by 2020. Of the ring cities between 2000 and 2018, Rock Hill is third in terms of both size and growth rate. The City growth rate since 2000 is 49%. This
The 2018 List Of Fastest-Growing Cities In America published by Forbes using Moody’s Analytics ranks the Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia-Rock Hill MSA 11th in 2017 population growth and in 2018 projected population growth.
trend is expected to continue throughout the planning horizon.
Source: America’s Fastest-Growing Cities, Forbes & Moody’s Analytics, https://www.forbes.com/ sites/samanthasharf/2018/02/28/americas-fastest-growing-cities-2018/#372180e445dc
TABLE 2.1 HISTORIC POPULATION DATA COMPARISON Source: US Census Bureau 1990, 2000, 2010, American Community Survey 2018 1-Yr Estimate
1990
% CHANGE 1990-2000
2000
% CHANGE 2000-2010
2010
% CHANGE 2010-2018
2018
3,486,703
15%
4,012,012
15%
4,625,364
10%
5,084,127
CHARLOTTE
395,934
37%
540,828
35%
731,424
19%
872,498
YORK COUNTY
131,497
25%
164,614
37%
226,073
21%
274,118
CONCORD
27,347
105%
55,977
41%
79,066
19%
94,130
GASTONIA
54,732
21%
66,277
8%
71,741
7%
77,024
41,643
20%
49,765
33%
66,154
10%
74,309
--
--
88,505
26%
111,641
--
--
KANNAPOLIS
29,696
24%
36,910
15%
42,625
17%
49,761
MOORESVILLE
9,317
102%
18,823
74%
32,711
17%
38,431
MONROE
16,127
63%
55,977
25%
32,797
8%
35,311
FORT MILL
4,930
54%
7,587
42%
10,811
84%
19,848
TEGA CAY
3,016
34%
4,044
88%
7,620
43%
10,863
SOUTH CAROLINA
ROCK HILL city ROCK HILL Planning Area
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
19
POPULATION
Incorporated in 1870, the area in and around Rock Hill has a deep history
Carolina border like Tega Cay and Fort Mill. Rock Hill has and will continue to
including native American tribes and early Colonial settlers. Thus as a more
be an integral part of the Charlotte economic engine. Rock Hill’s population
mature and larger city of the Charlotte MSA, Rock Hill has experienced more
growth is more indicative of Charlotte than the State or other South Carolina
temperate growth rates compared to neighboring communities along the
cities, Figures 2.1 & 2.2.
FIGURE 2.1 REGIONAL GROWTH RATE COMPARISON [2000-2010]
CHANGE IN POPULATION 2000 - 2010 (%)
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000, 2010
15%
FORT MILL
TEGA CAY MOORESVILLE 20
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
YORK ROCK COUNTY HILL CONCORD CHARLOTTE
N.C. (18%) S.C. (15%)
KANNAPOLIS MONROE
GASTONIA
2
POPULATION
YORK
ND FASTEST GROWING
COUNTY IN SOUTH CAROLINA
From 2000 to 2010, York County was the 2nd fastest growing county among the 10 counties in the Charlotte MSA and the 2nd fastest growing county in South Carolina. Source: US Census Bureau
FIGURE 2.2 REGIONAL GROWTH RATE COMPARISON [2010-2018]
CHANGE IN POPULATION 2010 - 2018 (%)
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010, American Community Survey 2018 1-Yr Estimate
8%
TEGA CAY FORT MILL
CHARLOTTE YORK COUNTY
MOORESVILLE CONCORD
KANNAPOLIS
ROCK HILL
7%
S.C. (10%) N.C. (9%)
GASTONIA MONROE VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
21
POPULATION
Dating back to the 1950s, Rock Hill’s population growth has been increasing
historic growth trend and Rock Hill’s relationship within the Charlotte MSA
with periods of faster growth than others as indicated by Figure 2.3. This
is taken into consideration when projecting future population growth. The
rate of growth is compared to the average of all the growth rates of the sister
South Carolina Revenue & Fiscal Affairs Office provides population projects
ring cities (Mooresville, Kannapolis, Concord, Monroe, and Gastonia).
for the State and its counties. Figure 2.4 illustrates the York County population
This
FIGURE 2.3 HISTORIC POPULATION DATA & GROWTH RATE Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2018 1-Year Estimate
Rock Hill Growth Rate Rock Hill Population
22
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
GROWTH RATE (%)
NUMBER OF PERSONS
Average Growth Rate of Ring cities
DID YOU KNOW?
projections as well as a calculated Rock Hill projection using a constant share
POPULATION
There are many modeling techniques and methods utilized for calculating population projections. A constant share method uses the larger geographic area population to calculate the population of the smaller geographic area by a constant proportion. In 2010, the proportion of Rock Hill’s population to the County’s was about 30% and about 1.5% that of the State.
method based on the 2010 Census population. It is anticipated that as neighboring communities such as Tega Cay and Fort Mill reach higher build out levels, that Rock Hill will experience greater impacts of Charlotte growth.
FIGURE 2.4 HISTORIC & PROJECTED POPULATION DATA Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2011-2015 5-Year Estimate, & South Carolina Revenue & Fiscal Affairs Office Projects; Rock Hill projections are calculated using a constant share method based on SC and York County projections provided by the SC Office of Revenue & Fiscal Affairs.
Rock Hill Population
Rock Hill’s Share of County Growth
450,000
45%
400,000
40%
350,000
35%
300,000
30%
250,000
25%
200,000
20%
150,000
15%
100,000
10%
50,000 0
SHARE OF COUNTY GROWTH (%)
NUMBER OF PERSONS
York County Population
5%
0%
1950
1960
1970
1980
1990
2000
2010
2015
2020
2025
2030
2035
PROJECTIONS
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
23
POPULATION
AGE Despite an aging demographic, Rock Hill continues to have one of the youngest
County (38.3 years) or the State (39 years), Figure 2.5. Rock Hill’s distribution
populations among the ring cities. With a median age of 33.5 years, Rock Hill
of age groups is well balanced between those under 18, the workforce (18-65
is more representative of the City of Charlotte (33.9 years) than to York
years) and those 65+ years of age. Other than Charlotte, Rock Hill has the
FIGURE 2.5 MEDIAN AGE COMPARISONS [2017]
TABLE 2.3 DISTRIBUTION OF AGE GROUPS, % [2017]
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
ROCK HILL
33.5
MONROE
33.5
CHARLOTTE
33.9
MOORESVILLE
35.7
KANNAPOLIS
35.7
FORT MILL
GASTONIA
YORK COUNTY
SOUTH CAROLINA
24
34.4
CONCORD
TEGA CAY
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE
18 - 65 YEARS OF AGE
OVER 65 YEARS OF AGE
Rock Hill
23%
64%
12%
South Carolina
22%
61%
16%
Charlotte
24%
66%
10%
York County
25%
62%
13%
Gastonia
25%
60%
15%
Kannapolis
26%
60%
13%
Concord
27%
61%
12%
Mooresville
28%
61%
11%
Monroe
28%
60%
12%
Fort Mill
30%
60%
10%
Tega Cay
30%
60%
10%
36.5 37.9 38.3 39 40.4
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
POPULATION
largest percentage of its population in the workforce age group, Table 2.3.
the burden on the workforce (18-65 years of age) portion of the population
Compared to the other jurisdictions, Rock Hill’s child dependency ratio is
as compared to children (under 18 years of age) is less than in neighboring
the lowest even when compared to Charlotte, Table 2.2. This indicates that
communities like Monroe and Fort Mill.
FIGURE 2.6 DISTRIBUTION OF AGE GROUPS, % AND DEPENDENCY RATIOS [2017]
DEPENDENCY RATIO
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION (%)
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
CHILD DEPENDENCY RATIO OLD-AGE DEPENDENCY RATIO
OVER 65 YEARS 18-65 YEARS UNDER 18 YEARS ROCK HILL
FORT CHARLOTTE GASTONIA MONROE MILL YORK CONCORD KANNAPOLIS MOORESVILLE COUNTY
SOUTH CAROLINA TEGA CAY VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
25
POPULATION
RACE & ETHNICITY Like most communities across the United States, Rock Hill’s population is
smallest percentage of white population (54%) and the largest percentage of
becoming more diverse, experiencing 5% decrease in the white population
African Americans (39%). In terms of racial diversity, Rock Hill is more like
since 2000, Table 2.5. Of the ring cities around Charlotte, Rock Hill has the
Charlotte than any other ring city, Table 2.4.
TABLE 2.4 RACIAL COMPOSITION COMPARISONS, % OF POPULATION [2017]
FIGURE 2.7 TREND OF RACIAL COMPOSITION, [NET CHANGE 2000 - 2017] Source: US Census Bureau 2000, American Community Survey 2013-2017
White
African American
Native American
Asian
Other
Two+ Races
Rock Hill
54%
39%
0.1%
3%
2%
2%
Charlotte
50%
35%
0.3%
6%
6%
3%
Gastonia
63%
28%
0.2%
2%
4%
3%
South Carolina
67%
27%
0.3%
2%
2%
2%
Monroe
65%
25%
0.6%
1%
7%
2%
Kannapolis
67%
22%
0.3%
2%
7%
2%
Concord
67%
21%
0.3%
4%
5%
2%
York County
75%
19%
0.6%
2%
2%
2%
Fort Mill
76%
18%
0.1%
2%
1%
3%
Mooresville
80%
10%
0.5%
6%
2%
2%
Tega Cay
92%
3%
0.2%
2%
2%
0.3%
26
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
TWO+ RACES OTHER PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION (%)
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
ASIAN AFRICAN AMERICAN WHITE
2000
ROCK HILL
2017
ROCK HILL
POPULATION
Again, similar to national trends, Rock Hill is experiencing growth in its Hispanic
Charlotte. In terms of ethnicity, Rock Hill is more like the County and the
population (3% net change), Figure 2.7. However, Rock Hill’s existing Hispanic
State both compositionally and the rate of change since 2000, Table 2.6.
population (5%) is relatively low compared to other ring cities and to
TABLE 2.6 ETHNICITY COMPOSITION COMPARISONS, % OF POPULATION [2017] Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
FIGURE 2.8 TREND OF HISPANIC COMPOSITION COMPARISONS, [NET CHANGE 2000 - 2017] Source: US Census Bureau 2000, American Community Survey 2013-2017
Hispanic
Non-Hispanic
Fort Mill
4%
96%
Rock Hill
5%
95%
York County
5%
95%
South Carolina
6%
94%
Tega Cay
7%
93%
Mooresville
9%
91%
Gastonia
10%
90%
Concord
13%
87%
Charlotte
14%
86%
Kannapolis
14%
86%
Monroe
30%
70%
N.C. & S.C. (4%)
ROCK HILL
3%
FORT MILL
3%
YORK COUNTY
3%
GASTONIA
4%
CONCORD
5%
MOORESVILLE
6%
TEGA CAY
6%
CHARLOTTE
7%
KANNAPOLIS
8%
MONROE
9%
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
27
POPULATION
EDUCATION Education attainment is one of the strongest means of ensuring future
(both 89%), but slightly above that of the State and the Nation (both 87%).
prosperity. In 2017, 88% of the Rock Hill population had a high school degree
While most communities across the Nation are experiencing a decrease in
or higher, Table 2.7. This is slightly below that of Charlotte and York County
the population without high school degrees, Rock Hill’s decrease since 2000
TABLE 2.7 EDUCATION COMPARISONS, % OF 25 YRS.+ POPULATION [2017] Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
No High School Degree
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
High School Graduate or Some College (includes equivalency)
Bachelor’s Degree & Higher
Rock Hill
12%
59%
29%
South Carolina
13%
60%
27%
York County
11%
58%
31%
Charlotte
11%
46%
43%
Gastonia
15%
61%
24%
Kannapolis
16%
63%
21%
Concord
11%
55%
34%
Mooresville
8%
55%
38%
Monroe
22%
62%
16%
Fort Mill
7%
52%
41%
Tega Cay
3%
42%
55%
28
FIGURE 2.9 SELECTED EDUCATION COMPARISONS, % OF 25 YRS & OLDER [2017]
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
No High School Degree
High School Degree & Higher
12%
ROCK HILL
16%
MOORESVILLE
KANNAPOLIS
84%
88%
15%
CONCORD
MONROE
GASTONIA
85%
POPULATION
is one of the largest in the region behind Fort Mill and Kannapolis, Table 2.8.
to support this trend toward higher education attainment.
Rock Hill’s strong public and private grade schools as well as higher education facilities support the needs of the City’s growing population and will continue
TABLE 2.8 TREND OF EDUCATION ATTAINMENT COMPARISONS, [NET CHANGE 2000 - 2017, % OF 25 YRS.+ POPULATION] Source: US Census Bureau 2000, American Community Survey 2013-2017
No High School Degree
High School Graduate or Some College (includes equivalency)
Bachelor’s Degree & Higher
Rock Hill
-13%
8%
5%
South Carolina
-10%
3%
7%
York County
-12%
2%
10%
Charlotte
-4%
-3%
6%
Gastonia
-13%
9%
2%
Kannapolis
-15%
5%
9%
Concord
-10%
-2%
11%
Mooresville
-10%
-5%
15%
Monroe
-10%
10%
0%
Fort Mill
-14%
1%
13%
Tega Cay
2%
-4%
3%
FIGURE 3.0 TREND OF EDUCATION ATTAINMENT ROCK HILL, [NET CHANGE 2000- 2017, % OF 25 YRS.+ POPULATION] Source: US Census Bureau 2000, American Community Survey 2013-2017
-13%
decrease in non-degree population
8%
increase in H.S. degree & some college population
5%
increase in college degree population
RHSD #3 Report Card
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
29
POPULATION
DISABILITY The Census Bureau defines disability as a lasting physical, mental, or emotional
2.9, which is a decrease by about 2% since 2012. The 2017 percentage is about
condition that makes it difficult for a person to conduct daily activities of living
the average for the region, but Rock Hill saw the largest decrease in the region
or impedes him/her from being able to go outside the home alone or to work.
between 2012 and 2017, Figure 3.1.
A total of 10.4% of Rock Hill’s 2017 population is classified as disabled, Table TABLE 2.9 DISABILITY BY AGE GROUPS, % [2017]
FIGURE 3.1 TREND OF POPULATION WITH DISABILITY, [NET CHANGE 2012- 2017]
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
30
Source: American Community Surveys, 2008-2012 & 2013-2017 Note: Those jurisdictions with no significant change not shown below.
2012 PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION
2017 PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION
Tega Cay
4%
6%
Charlotte
8%
9%
Rock Hill
12%
10%
Concord
9%
10%
Mooresville
8%
10%
Monroe
11%
10%
Fort Mill
11%
10%
York County
11%
11%
Kannapolis
13%
12%
South Carolina
14%
15%
Gastonia
15%
15%
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
ROCK HILL
-2% FORT MILL
-1%
KANNAPOLIS
-1%
MONROE
-1% 1%
CONCORD
2%
MOORESVILLE
2%
TEGA CAY
HOUSING
HOUSING Similar to population growth trends, Rock Hill has experienced substantial
that time, growth momentum has recovered as the economy has strengthened.
housing growth since 2000, Table 3.1. Most of the growth occurred between 2000
Rock Hill’s growth in housing units is consistent with how both Charlotte and
and 2010 which is likely due to the housing boom prior to the recession. Since
Concord have grown and is growing faster than the Planning Area as a whole.
TABLE 3.1 HOUSING UNIT COMPARISONS [2000 - 2017]
Source: 2000 & 2010 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2013-2017
2000
2010
2017
% Change 2000-2017
GASTONIA
27,857
31,238
31,942
15%
KANNAPOLIS
15,941
18,645
19,255
21%
MONROE
9,621
12,375
12,197
27%
1,753,670
2,137,683
2,229,324
27%
ROCK HILL Planning Area
35,463
47,654
49,948
41%
ROCK HILL City
20,287
29,159
30,067
48%
CHARLOTTE
230,434
319,918
343,222
49%
CONCORD
22,485
32,130
33,835
50%
YORK COUNTY
66,061
94,196
102,383
55%
FORT MILL
3,063
4,479
5,580
82%
MOORESVILLE
7,741
13,655
14,320
85%
TEGA CAY
1,577
2,926
3,464
120%
SOUTH CAROLINA
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
33
HOUSING
3
WEEK
On average, there were about 3 homes built per 5-day week between 2000 and 2017.
Since 1970, there has been a substantial increase in the number of housing units in Rock Hill. As such, the population rate has grown at a high rate as well. Between 2000 and 2010, when the City had the largest increase in housing units, population grew by 25%. Since housing unit growth has leveled-off since 2010, the population growth rate has slowed down to 9%.
FIGURE 3.1 HISTORIC HOUSING UNIT COUNT & POPULATION GROWTH RATE Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2013-2017 5-Year Estimate
Rock Hill Population Growth Rate
Rock Hill Housing Units 35,000
30%
25%
25,000 20% 20,000 15%
15,000 10% 10,000
5%
5,000
0
0% 1970
34
1980
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
1990
2000
2010
2017
GROWTH RATE (&)
NUMBER OF HOUSING UNITS
30,000
HOUSING
HOUSEHOLD COMPOSITION
HOUSEHOLD SIZE
Rock Hill has the lowest number of married family households and highest
Rock Hill has a smaller average household size than the nation, South Carolina,
number of non-family households. Rock Hill is also on the higher end of single
and York County. It experienced a steep decrease between 1990 and 2010,
parent households as well, Table 3.2.
and has remained constant since 2010, Figure 3.2.
TABLE 3.2 HOUSEHOLD COMPOSITION
FIGURE 3.2 AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD SIZE [1990 - 2017]
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
Source: 1990, 2000, & 2010 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2013-2017
Rock Hill
Single Parent (Female)
Single Parent (Male)
Non-Family*
Rock Hill
38%
16%
6%
40%
Charlotte
40%
14%
5%
40%
Gastonia
41%
18%
5%
36%
Monroe
46%
19%
9%
26%
South Carolina
47%
15%
4%
34%
Kannapolis
48%
16%
6%
30%
United States
48%
13%
5%
34%
York County
53%
13%
5%
29%
Mooresville
53%
12%
4%
31%
Concord
53%
14%
4%
29%
Fort Mill
54%
18%
3%
25%
Tega Cay
74%
6%
4%
16%
* Non-Family households includes households with a single occupant or households with non-related occupants such as roommates.
South Carolina United States
York County
2.90 2.85 NUMBER OF PERSONS PER HOUSEHOLD
Married Family
2.80 2.75 2.70
2.65 2.60 2.55 2.50 2.45
2.40 1990 Rock Hill
2000 York County
2010 South Carolina
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
2017 US
35
HOUSING
HOUSING OCCUPANCY The percent of occupied units has increased and the percent of vacant
and vacant units. Rock Hill’s vacancy rates have also decreased since 2010,
units has decreased since 2010.
however, the City generally higher vacancy rates than the County, State, and
This is likely due to the improvements
in the economy since the recession.
Rock Hill is in the middle of
United States.
the ring cities, the County, and State in terms of both occupied TABLE 3.3 COMPARISON OF CHANGES IN HOUSING OCCUPANCY, [NET CHANGE 2010 - 2017]
TABLE 3.4 VACANCY RATES ( HOMEOWNER VS. RENTER) Source: 2000 & 2010 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2013-2017
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
36
2010 Occupied Units
2010 Vacant Units
2017 Occupied Units
2017 Vacant Units
Fort Mill
94%
6%
96%
4%
Tega Cay
94%
6%
95%
5%
York County
91%
9%
93%
7%
Concord
91%
9%
93%
7%
Rock Hill
89%
11%
93%
Charlotte
91%
9%
Monroe
90%
Mooresville
2000
2010
2017
Homeowner
3%
3%
2%
Renter
8%
14%
6%
Homeowner
2%
2%
1%
7%
Renter
8%
12%
5%
92%
8%
South Carolina
10%
92%
8%
Homeowner
2%
3%
2%
91%
9%
92%
8%
Renter
12%
14%
9%
Kannapolis
88%
12%
87%
13%
Homeowner
2%
2%
2%
South Carlina
84%
16%
84%
16%
Renter
7%
9%
6%
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Rock Hill
York County
United States
HOUSING
Census tracts with the highest percentage of vacancies are located in and around
the census tract on Winthrop University’s campus was unavailable. Student
downtown, Map 3.1. Census tracts with the lowest vacancies are located along
housing comprises this census tract and is occupied during the school year and
the Catawba River, I-77, and north of Celanese Road. The vacancy rate for
vacant during the summer months.
MAP 3.1 VACANT HOUSING BY CENSUS TRACT, [PERCENTAGE, 2017] Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
0% - 5% 5% - 10% 10% - 15% Data Unavailable Planning Area Boundary
2 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
37
HOUSING
HOUSING TENURE (HOMEOWNER VS RENTER) Rock Hill is split almost evenly between owner-occupied and renter-occupied
Renter-occupied units have increased in all areas other than Monroe.
units, and has the lowest percentage of owner-occupied units and highest
Nationally, there has been an increase of nearly 4% in renter-occupied
percentage of rental units. It is most comparable to Charlotte and Gastonia.
units which is comparable to the City’s increase from 2010 to 2017.
The county and all other municipalities are predominately owner-occupied. FIGURE 3.3 COMPARISON OF CHANGES IN HOUSING TENURE, [NET CHANGE 2010 - 2017]
TABLE 3.5 HOUSING TENURE [2010 & 2017] Source: 2010 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2013-2017
38
2010 OwnerOccupied Units
2010 RenterOccupied Units
2017 OwnerOccupied Units
2017 RenterOccupied Units
Tega Cay
93%
7%
87%
13%
York County
72%
28%
71%
29%
South Carolina
69%
31%
69%
31%
Concord
68%
32%
66%
34%
Fort Mill
68%
32%
66%
34%
MONROE
Mooresville
64%
36%
61%
39%
-1%
Kannapolis
63%
37%
59%
41%
Monroe
57%
43%
57%
43%
Gastonia
56%
44%
55%
45%
Charlotte
57%
43%
53%
47%
Rock Hill
53%
47%
52%
48%
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2013-2017
NET CHANGE IN RENTER-OCCUPIED UNITS
ROCK HILL
3%
GASTONIA CONCORD MOORSEVILLE CHARLOTTE KANNAPOLIS
4%
6%
9%
10%
11%
HOUSING
The highest rates of owner-occupied units are located on the periphery of
MAP 3.2 DISPROPORTIONATE SHARE OF OWNER- AND RENTER-OCCUPIED HOUSING, [PERCENTAGE, 2017]
the Rock Hill City limits while renter-
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
occupied units are concentrated in and near the downtown, along Cherry Road, near Galleria Mall, and the Catawba River. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) determines an area demonstrates a disproportionate share of owner-occupied or renteroccupied units if it is comprised of 10 percentage points more than the City average
of
either
owner-occupied
or renter-occupied units.
Data was
unavailable for a small census tract located
on
Winthrop
University’s
campus.
Owner-Occupied
Data Unavailable
Renter-Occupied
Planning Area Boundary
2 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
39
HOUSING
HOUSING TYPES & STOCK While Rock Hill is composed of mostly single-family homes, about a third are
Rock Hill is a less mature ring city with 62% of houses younger than 40 years
multi-family which is higher than all ring cities, but is comparable to Charlotte.
old. This breakdown is similar to Charlotte and other ring cities like Concord
The City also has a low number of mobile homes when compared to the ring cities.
and Monroe. Both Gastonia and Kannapolis have a relatively older housing stock with 57% and 55% of houses older than 40 years, respectively.
FIGURE 3.4 HOUSING TYPES, [2017]
FIGURE 3.5 HOUSING STOCK AGE [2017]
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
Single-Family
100%
1%
Multi-Family
Duplex
1%
90%
3% 16%
32%
80% 70%
3%
60%
34%
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
Mobile Home
2%
2%
26%
24%
3% 2%
2%
70%
72%
Older than 40 Years
Younger than 40 Years
5% 11%
2%
38%
35% ROCK HILL
CHARLOTTE
62%
55% KANNAPOLIS
46%
65%
2%
50% 40%
79% 64%
30%
64%
82%
32% 43%
CONCORD
68%
20%
10% 0%
40
ROCK HILL
CHARLOTTE
CONCORD
GASTONIA
MOORESVILLE KANNAPOLIS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
42% MONROE
57%
57%
GASTONIA
HOUSING
MEDIAN HOME VALUES Rock Hill has relatively affordable housing compared to the County and
Over 70% of homes are less than $200,000 in Rock Hill, Figure 3.7. This
Nation, Figure 3.6. When compared to the ring cities, Rock Hill has the
breakdown is comparable to Gastonia and Kannapolis, which also have lower
third lowest median home value, only behind Kannapolis and Gastonia.
median home values. Charlotte, Concord and Moorseville have a higher percentage of homes above $200,000.
FIGURE 3.6 MEDIAN HOME VALUES, [2017] Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
ROCK HILL
$145,500
FIGURE 3.7 DISTRIBUTION OF HOME VALUES Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
100%
More than 500K
$100K - 200K
$200K - $500K
Less than 100K
3%
3%
90% 25%
80%
YORK COUNTY
$173,600
3%
3%
1%
22%
21%
24%
2%
12%
40% 51%
34%
70%
60% 50%
NATION
$193,500
46%
44%
46% 58%
40% 39%
30%
43% 39%
20% 10% 0%
30%
28% 15%
14%
30% 17% 8%
MOORSEVILLE ROCK HILL CONCORD KANNAPOLIS CHARLOTTE GASTONIA MONROE VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
41
HOUSING
MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME
COST OF LIVING
Rock Hill has the second lowest median household income when compared
The majority of both homeowners and renters pay less than $1,500 per month
to the Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), County, North and South Carolina
for housing. Homeowners pay a median amount of $1,172 per month which is
and almost all surrounding ring cities. Only Gastonia has a lower median
lower than the national ($1,515) and County ($1,276) medians. Renters also
household income. Rock Hill’s median household income is $44,296 (about
have a slightly lower median monthly payment ($882) than the national ($982)
$3,700 per month) compared to Mooresville, which is the highest at $67,213
and County ($893) medians.
($5,600 per month). Click Here to Learn About Living Wages
FIGURE 3.8 MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME [2017] Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
FIGURE 3.9 DISTRIBUTION OF OWNER HOUSING COSTS, [2017] Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
1,172 MEDIAN
50%
MORTGAGE
$80,000
45% $67,213
$70,000 $58,202
$60,000
$59,394
$60,238
35%
NC ($50,320)
$49,637
$50,000 $43,985
40%
$44,296
SC ($48,781)
$40,000
30% 25% 20%
$30,000
15% $20,000
10% $10,000
5% $-
0%
GASTONIA
42
ROCK HILL
KANNAPOLIS CHARLOTTE
YORK COUNTY
MOORESVILLE CONCORD
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
> $500
$500 - $999
$1K - $1.5K
$1.5K - $2K
$2K - $2.5K
<$2.5K
HOUSING
While
housing
payments
in
Rock
Hill
are
lower
than
the
The City of Rock Hill identifies barriers to affordable housing in its Consolidated
national and County medians, over a quarter of homeowners and over 55% of
Plan. Barriers include lack of money for down payments and closing costs, lack
renters are considered cost-burdened, Figure 3.11. A homeowner or renter
of education and job skills, lack of a dedicated public transportation network,
is considered cost-burdened when their housing costs exceed 30% of their
zoning impediments, and availability and location of affordable housing stock.
income.
The City began a free public transit system in June of 2019.
FIGURE 3.10 DISTRIBUTION OF RENTER HOUSING COSTS, [2017]
FIGURE 3.11 COST-BURDENED HOUSING, [2017]
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
$ 882
70%
MEDIAN RENT
60%
26%
Cost-Burdened
50%
Not Cost-Burdened
HOMEOWNER 40%
74% 30%
20%
57%
10%
RENTER
43%
0%
> $500
$500 - $999
$1K - $1.5K
$1.5K - $2K
$2K - $2.5K
<$2.5K
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
43
HOUSING
HOUSING CONSTRUCTION Since 2010, there have been over 2,700 permits issued for new residential
family development is concentrated in Riverwalk, Sweetwater Plantation,
development, both single-family and multi-family. Much of the new single-
Roddey Park, Norwood Ridge, The Parks, and Stone Ridge. Several multifamily buildings have been built in Riverwalk and Downtown,
MAP 3.3 PERMITS ISSUED BY CENSUS TRACT, [2010 - 2020] Source: City of Rock Hill, Planning and Development Department
New Build Permit Planning Area Boundary
2 Miles 44
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
HOUSING
NEIGHBORHOODS There are 134 neighborhood associations in the City. Of these associations, 102
hold regular meetings. There is also a Council of Neighborhoods which is the
(76%) are active and 34 (24%) are inactive. Active neighborhood associations
umbrella group for recognized neighborhood organizations. More information on the Council of Neighborhoods can be found here.
MAP 3.4 NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONS Source: City of Rock Hill, Housing and Neighborhood Services Department
Active Inactive Planning Area Boundary
2 Miles VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
45
HOUSING
EXTERNAL HOUSING CONDITIONS
HOUSING ENTITIES
Rock Hill addresses external housing conditions through the administration
ROCK HILL HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES
of the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC). The code outlines
Housing and Neighborhood Services helps form partnerships between
requirements for exterior building issues such as missing, damaged, or rotted
neighborhood residents, the business community, and local government to
boards, sagging roofs, blistered or peeling paint, porch steps and handrails.
create a safer, healthier, and friendlier environment. HNS is comprised of
This includes outbuildings as well as the main residence, both for multi-family
three divisions: Neighborhood Development, Neighborhood Empowerment,
and single family dwellings. Internal housing issues are difficult to address as
and Neighborhood Inspections.
owners are unlikely to report their own violations and renters rarely report
THE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION OF ROCK HILL (HDCRH)
them for fear of retaliation or fear of losing housing.
More information can be found here.
The Housing Development Corporation of Rock Hill (HDCRH) is a vessel
CODE VIOLATIONS
through which the City of Rock Hill and community leaders help low
Code violations for substandard housing are monitored by Rock Hill’s Housing
to moderate income residents with their housing needs.
& Neighborhood Services (HNS) – Neighborhood Inspections Division.
organization provides education and financial assistance as well as helpful
Violations can result in fines per violation or demolition of the structure
guidance on the home buying process, rehabilitation, new construction of
in cases where violations cannot or will not be corrected by the property
homes and rental units.
The nonprofit
owner. In 2019, there were 916 notices of violation issued. The majority of the violations were for yard debris and junk/derelict vehicles.
The housing programs are federally funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, HOME Investment Partnerships
Since 2010, there have been 516 demolitions. There was a high of 77 in 2010
Program, and the State’s Housing Trust Program. More information can be
and 2011, but they have steadily decreased to just 13 this past fiscal year. This
found here.
decrease has been a result of the Proactive Code Enforcement program that the City implemented in 2005. The Neighborhood Inspections Division is now
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF ROCK HILL
focused on preservation efforts to ensure properties do not get to the point
The Housing Authority of the City of Rock Hill manages the City’s Public
where they need to be demolished.
Housing Program and Section 8 rent subsidy program. More information can be found here. OTHER NATIONAL PARTNERS There are a host of national organizations that provide housing assistance in
46
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
HOUSING
Rock Hill, including the United Way, Salvation Army, American Red Cross,
•
Bethel United Methodist Church
Habitat for Humanity, and March of Dimes.
•
Salvation Army (Women and Children’s Emergency Winter Shelter) Children’s Attention Home
SUPPORT AGENCIES
PATHWAYS COMMUNITY CENTER Started by a group of business, church, government, and community leaders, PATHWAYS is a one-stop service center for food, clothing, shelter and housing options, counseling, spiritual guidance, governmental assistance, skills and job train, employment placement, health care, and more. More information can be found here.
•
Family Promise of York County (formally Interfaith Hospitality Network of York County)
•
Pilgrims’ Inn
•
Safe Passage
•
The Haven Men’s Shelter
The Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen (Oakland Avenue Presbyterian Church) provides lunch for the homeless Monday through Saturday.
ROCK HILL DREAM CENTER (RHDC)
PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
The RHDC is a nonprofit organization that helps people through discipleship.
Maxabilities, also known as the York County Board of Disabilities and Special
The RHDC provides a sewing training program, runs a new and gently used
Needs, operates 25 residential programs for individuals with intellectual
clothing store, administers a Dream Homes Program where people can work
disabilities, autism, and head and spinal cord injuries in York County. Maxabilities
with a mentor and coach on life skills, and offers academic tutoring for children
offers four residential programs that range from periodic staff supervision and
in grades K through 12. More information can be found here.
support to 24-hour support. They also operate two Work Activity Centers
SPECIAL NEEDS HOUSING ELDERLY
Currently, the City has three age-restricted developments with two more planned, one in University Center and one on Eden Terrace and N. Anderson Road. There are also three subsidized complexes, one retirement community, and several nursing homes/assisted living facilities in the City. The City does not have a group home for the elderly. In total, there are just over 1,000 units for the elderly community. CATAWBA AREA COALITION FOR THE HOMELESS
that provide day services to consumers. More information can be found here. The Catawba Community Mental Health Center offers outpatient or partial hospitalization care for people ages 18 and over with serious mental illness, mental health and substance abuse disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and forensic clients. More information can be found here. Holly Ridge Apartments, a privately-owned complex that provides for some low income apartments and some low income apartments for seniors, has 14 units for mentally ill residents.
The following organizations provide shelter for the City’s homeless: VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
47
HOUSING
HOUSING PROGRAMS
ABUSE Substance abuse services in Rock Hill are provided by the Keystone rehabilitation center. More information can be found here. Safe Passage offers supportive services to families living in abuse in York,
The City of Rock Hill has many housing programs to assist residents. Programs are administered or managed through City’s Housing and Neighborhood Services Department, Rock Hill Housing Authority, and Federal and State Government.
Lancaster, and Chester counties. Program services include emergency shelter
HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES PROGRAMS
for domestic violence victims and their children. More information can be
The Neighborhood R.E.D.I Program or Resource & Education Development
found here.
Initiative Program is a new program and is intended to develop an outreach and education plan specific to each community by identifying and fostering
The Children’s Attention Home Inc. provides emergency shelter and nurturing
relationships with neighborhood leaders and engaging local faith-based
services to abused, abandoned, and neglected children in South Carolina. More
organizations and schools. Using local knowledge, the City will be able to
information can be found here.
better target resources to help each community.
PEOPLE WITH HIV/AIDS Rock Hill’s Affinity Health Center provides services and housing coordination for people living with HIV/AIDS in the Rock Hill and York County area. More information can be found here. Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPA) is a federal program to provide housing assistance for people living with HIV/AIDS. More information on this program can be found here. TERMINALLY ILL The City of Rock Hill has one freestanding hospice house, Hospice & Community Care, which features 16 private suites for terminally ill patients.
The Catawba Terrace
Neighborhood was the pilot neighborhood for the program in 2018. Other programs managed or run by HNS include: •
Neighborhood Stabilization Program
•
Neighborhood Initiative Program (NIP)
•
Rolling in Rock Hill
•
Demolition Program
•
Pro-Active Code Enforcement
•
Weed and Seed
More information on these programs can be found here. ROCK HILL HOUSING AUTHORITY PROGRAMS Qualified renters can rent lower-rent housing units which are owned and operated by the Housing Authority. The Housing Authority currently owns and operates 339 units in eight complexes around the City, 56 units of which
48
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
HOUSING
HOUSING PLANS AND STUDIES are dedicated to the elderly and near elderly (55 and older). More information
2020-2025 CONSOLIDATED PLAN
on this program can be found here.
Rock Hill is updating its Consolidated Plan in FY19/20 which is needed to receive federal funding from HUD. The Consolidated Plan includes a five-
The Section 8 Rent Subsidy Program is designed to assist very low income
year strategy and one-year action plan to address housing and community
families in paying rent for private housing units which are not owned by a
development issues in Rock Hill. More information on this plan can be found
local housing authority. This assistance comes in the form of housing choice
here.
vouchers through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Section 8 Program. FEDERAL & STATE PROGRAM The LIHTC Program is a federal program designed to incentivize the private market to invest in affordable rental housing. Developers of qualified projects receive federal housing tax credits which can be sold to investors to raise capital (or equity) for their project, which reduces debt so they can provide more affordable rents.
ANALYSIS OF IMPEDIMENTS TO FAIR HOUSING CHOICE (AI) Rock Hill is updating the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice as part of its requirement to receive Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) money. The Plan’s goal is to certify that the City will affirmatively further fair housing for all citizens; particularly those of low and moderate income. More information on this plan can be found here. HOUSING DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION STRATEGIC PLAN The HDC is developing a strategic plan to help define goals and tasks to
The federal government allocates the money to the state that then awards
support their mission. The HDC is also improving their website and social
housing tax credits to projects. Housing developments that have been built
media campaign to reach more people and streamline their processes. More
with housing tax credits in Rock Hill include Rock Pointe, Innsbrook Commons,
information on HDC and to view their plan once its been adopted can be
and Cherry Laurel.
found here.
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
49
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT This element provides key findings related to the existing economic conditions
continue. Future growth projections are reinforced by evidence such as job
and needs for Rock Hill and the planning area. Employment and real estate
commitments of eight Fortune 500 and fourteen Fortune 1000 companies
market trends were analyzed by planners and economic development
in the region including recent announcements of Honeywell and the future
professionals to develop residential, retail, office, and industrial development
merger of BB&T and SunTrust.
forecasts. These forecasts help to shape Rock Hill’s future land use map. As the second fastest growing county in the MSA and the State, York County
TRENDS Rock Hill’s economic climate is influenced by larger economic trends at a national and regional level.
has continued to experience rapid growth, attracting a labor force seeking quality schools and amenities. While job growth is strong in many sectors, the light industrial, warehouse and logistic sector has experienced rapid growth along the I-77 interstate. Recent announcement of the Carolina Panthers’
NATIONAL TRENDS
Training Facility and an additional I-77 interchange for Rock Hill will further
The U.S. has generally been experiencing continued economic growth since the
drive development and growth along this corridor.
last Comprehensive Plan update in 2015. While growth has been slow and has not always occurred evenly, positive indicators such as GDP (gross domestic
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES
product) gains, low unemployment rates and low inflation are evidence of
As noted, the County and Rock Hill’s location within the MSA and proximity
recovery.
to major trade routes are key economic advantages. This coupled with the
Urbanized areas across the nation have continued to see the
strongest growth and development. While forecasters predict that there will
following competitive advantages will support future economic development:
be general economic contraction in the years to come, it is anticipated that
•
Connectivity - airport, interstates, ports, rail
this will be a slow down verses a steep recession as experienced during the
•
Business friendly environment - tax policies, incentives, & lower costs
Great Recession. Analysts suggest that this will depend on how challenges are addressed including: deteriorating infrastructure, wage stagnation, rising
of doing business •
income inequality, elevated pension and medical costs, and government budget deficits.
METRO & LOCAL TRENDS The Charlotte Metro Area ranked eleventh in 2017 population growth of U.S. metro areas and its growth of a skilled labor force is projected to
Good infrastructure including utilities as well as recreational and cultural amenities based on sound financial investments
•
Strong quality of life & schools
•
Low cost of living
MARKET & INDUSTRY ANALYSIS The following analysis includes insights into employment and real estate trends. VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
53
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
LABOR FORCE & JOB MARKET Rock Hill and York County have experienced steady growth in terms of both
Charlotte MSA since 2000. In comparison, Charlotte and Concord’s job growth
employment or job growth (demand) and labor force (supply), Figure 4.1 and
realized a 57% net change increase during this same time period; Concord had
Tables 4.1-4.2. This growth has out paced the State, the Nation as well as the
the most growth of the ring cities from 2000 - 2018, Figures 4.2-4.3.
FIGURE 4.1 ROCK HILL LABOR FORCE VS EMPLOYMENT GROWTH, 2000 - 2018 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
FIGURE 4.2 JOB GROWTH OF RING CITIES, NET CHANGE 2000 - 2018 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Note: Mooresville not included below; labor statistics not available.
57% 48% Labor Force Growth
Job Growth
13%
Gastonia
28%
22%
Kannapolis
Monroe
Rock Hill
Concord
TABLE 4.1 JOB GROWTH, ANNUAL AVERAGE, 2000 - 2018 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
2000
2018
Net Change (%)
York County
86,214
130,306
51%
Rock Hill
24,748
36,507
48%
MSA
907,432
1,284,501
42%
1,918,583
2,243,656
17%
136,891,000
155,761,000
14%
South Carolina United States
54
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
UNEMPLOYMENT Both Rock Hill and York County have generally followed the State and
slightly more than the County’s and States (3.3% and 3.4% respectively), but is
National trends in terms of unemployment rates decreasing since 2009, Figure
lower than the Nation and Charlotte MSA (3.9% and 3.8% respectively).
4.4. Despite a steady decline, Rock Hill’s 2018 unemployment rate of 3.7% is
FIGURE 4.3 LABOR FORCE GROWTH OF RING CITIES, NET CHANGE 2000 - 2018
FIGURE 4.4 UNEMPLOYMENT RATES, 2009 - 2018
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
57%
11% Gastonia
26%
22%
Kannapolis
Monroe
Rock Hill
Concord
TABLE 4.2 LABOR FORCE, ANNUAL AVERAGE, 2000 - 2018 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
2000
2018
Net Change (%)
York County
89,184
134,695
51%
Rock Hill
25,776
37,901
47%
MSA
939,823
1,333,079
42%
1,993,562
2,323,209
17%
142,583,000
162,075,000
14%
South Carolina United States
PERCENTAGE, (ANNUAL AVERAGE)
47%
Rock Hill
South Carolina
York County
United States
Metropolitian Statistical Area (MSA)
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
55
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
INCOME
WHAT IS A LIVING WAGE?
As mentioned in the Housing section, Figure 3.8, Rock Hill has the second
Source: MIT Living Wage Calculator, 2019
lowest median household income ($44,296 in 2017) when compared to the
The living wage is the hourly rate that an individual must earn to support their family (if he/she is the sole provider and working fulltime) covering basic costs of food, shelter, transportation, health care, and taxes. The MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates that for one adult the hourly rate is $12.56 in York County and is $12.37 in the Charlotte MSA .
Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), County, North and South Carolina and almost all surrounding ring cities. Even further, this is a trend for Rock Hill as seen in Figure 4.4. Wage increases have generally not kept a similar pace to other ring cities or surrounding jurisdictions. While several factors can contribute, higher numbers of those living in poverty as well as a higher number of low-paying jobs likely impact this trend.
FIGURE 4.4 TREND IN MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME, [NET CHANGE 2010 - 2017] Source: US Census Bureau 2010, American Community Survey 2013-2017
29% NET CHANGE [PERCENTAGE]
23% 15% 11%
3%
ROCK HILL 56
8%
8%
GASTONIA
MSA
14% SC (11%) NC (10%)
5%
MONROE
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
CHARLOTTE
YORK COUNTY
CONCORD
KANNAPOLIS
MOORESVILLE
“ “
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
POVERTY While Rock Hill does have many similarities to Charlotte, (for example as noted in the population section similar diversity), Rock Hill is more like South Carolina when it comes to the topic of poverty. With 18% of the population living below the poverty level, Rock Hill has slightly more than the State’s 17%, Figure 4.5. Similar to other ring cities like Kannapolis and Gastonia, Rock Hill has shifted from the industrial economy to a service economy and is transitioning to a knowledge economy. While local schools, colleges, and universities have helped to retrain the workforce, these shifts have occurred more slowly in some areas than others.
WHAT IS POVERTY?
A rich, robust, well-resourced public education is one of the
best routes out of poverty and a pathway to prosperity. – Randi Weingarten, President American Federation of Teachers
Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
The US Census Bureau uses a set of money income thresholds that vary by family size and composition to determine who is in poverty. If the total income for a family or unrelated individual falls below the relevant poverty threshold, as noted below, then the family (and every individual in it) or unrelated individual is considered in poverty.
$ 25,094
ANNUAL INCOME
FAMILY HOUSEHOLDS 2 ADULTS, 2 CHILDREN
POVERTY LEVEL
$ 12,488
ANNUAL INCOME
INDIVIDUAL HOUSEHOLDS
POVERTY LEVEL
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
57
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
WHO is the face of poverty in Rock Hill? Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
There are many factors that can influence an individual’s or household’s wealth such as gender, age, race, and education attainment to name just a few. Several of these characteristics were considered when analyzing the population in Rock Hill living below the poverty level. Those that stood out - race and household status. Of the ring cities, only Gastonia has a higher percentage than Rock Hill, at 40%, of single mothers with children under the age of 18 living below the poverty level.
more than
1 out of 2
FIGURE 4.5 PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION LIVING BELOW POVERTY LEVEL [2017] Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
SC 17% NC 16% MOORESVILLE
CONCORD
12%
YORK COUNTY
12%
CHARLOTTE
54% of those living below poverty level in Rock Hill are African American KANNNAPOLIS
more than
1 out of 3
36% of those families living below poverty level in Rock Hill are single mothers with children under the age of 18
58
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
9%
ROCK HILL
GASTONIA
MONROE
15% 16% 18% 19% 21%
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Based on 2013-2017 ACS data for the past 12 months, the average poverty
study area average. This occurs in the area west and southwest of downtown
rate per Census Tract is 17.1% with the ranges shown in Map 4.1. The
primarily between Main Street and Heckle Boulevard.
disproportionate share threshold is 10 percentage points greater than the
MAP 4.1 PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION LIVING BELOW POVERTY LEVEL BY CENSUS TRACT [2017] Source: American Community Survey 2013-2017
0% - 7.1% 7.2% - 17.1% 17.2% - 27.1%
27.2% - 37.3%
Disproportionate Share Threshold (27.1%)
Planning Area Boundary 2 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
59
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
EMPLOYMENT GROWTH BY INDUSTRY Between 2012 and 2017, York County added over 14,000 jobs while the Rock
York County, unlike Rock Hill, saw an increase in Professional & Business
Hill area added over 3,000 jobs, Table 4.3. York County and the City both
Services jobs. The largest job losses occurred in Construction, Education
saw significant growth in Trade, Logistics & Utilities (industrial using), and
& Health Services for both the County and City. The County also saw a
Manufacturing (both industrial using typically with more moderate paying jobs).
significant decrease in Leisure & Hospitality jobs.
TABLE 4.3 EMPLOYMENT GROWTH BY INDUSTRY, 2012 - 2017 Source: American Community Survey 2012, 2017 5-Year Estimates
Rock Hill 2012
2012 Percent
2017
2017 Percent
Net Change 2012-2017
2012
2012 Percent
2017
2017 Percent
Net Change 2012-2017
110
0.3%
118
0.3%
-0.01%
525
0.5%
789
0.6%
0.16%
Construction
1,583
5.0%
1,311
3.7%
-1.25%
7,459
7.0%
6,970
5.7%
-1.24%
Manufacturing
4,037
12.7%
5,245
15.0%
2.25%
15,130
14.1%
18,620
15.3%
1.17%
Trade, Logistics & Utilities
6,611
20.9%
8,003
22.9%
2.01%
22,573
21.1%
27,634
22.7%
1.63%
785
2.5%
669
1.9%
-0.57%
2,503
2.3%
2,720
2.2%
-0.10%
Financial & Real Estate Activities
2,318
7.3%
2,360
6.7%
-0.57%
8,985
8.4%
9,470
7.8%
-0.61%
Professional & Business Services
3,239
10.2%
3,667
10.5%
0.26%
9,863
9.2%
12,790
10.5%
1.30%
Education & Health Services
6,834
21.6%
6,580
18.8%
-2.76%
20,884
19.5%
22,461
18.4%
-1.04%
Leisure & Hospitality
3,595
11.3%
4,177
11.9%
0.59%
10,440
9.7%
10,561
8.7%
-1.07%
Other Services
2,573
8.1%
2,862
8.2%
0.06%
8,836
8.2%
9,777
8.0%
-0.22%
10.4%
107,198
Natural Resources
Information
TOTAL
60
York County
31,685
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
34,992
121,792
13.6%
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
LOCATION QUOTIENT The location quotient is a measure of an economy’s diversity and strength.
with a robust, diverse economy; these include Manufacturing, Trade, Logis-
In this analysis when the quotient is above one (1), the sector is stronger
tics & Utilities, Leisure & Hospitality, and Other Services. Rock Hill also has
than the comparison area. Several sectors above one (1) indicate an economy
strong quotients in Professional Services and Education and Health Services.
FIGURE 4.6 LOCATION QUOTIENT, 2017
TOP EMPLOYERS [by number of employees]
Source: American Community Survey 2017, 5-Year Estimate
York Co. LQ Relative to Charlotte MSA
Rock Hill LQ Relative to Charlotte MSA Rock Hill LQ Relative to York Co.
2.0 1.75 1.50 1.25
1.0 0.75 0.50 0.25
Other Services
Leisure & Hospitality
Education & Health Services
Professional & Business Services
Financial & Real Estate Activities
Information
Trade, Logistics & Utilities
Manufacturing
Construction
Natural Resources
0
Source: York County Economic Development, highlighted employers are located in Rock Hill Lash Group
2900
Ross Stores, Inc [Distribution Centers]
2391
LPL Financial
2000
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
1691
Piedmont Medical Center
1650
Schaeffler Group USA, Inc
1304
Duke Energy Catawba Nuclear Station
985
Comporium
890
US Foods, Inc
738
Domtar [headquarters]
550
Daimler Trucks North America
525
Atlas Copco USA
500
Resolute Forest Products
500
Shutterfly
430
Citi Financial
400
OneMain Holding
400
Williams & Fudge, Inc
370
Stanley Black & Decker
367
Metrolina Greenhouses
364
Beacon Medaes, LLC
350
Sunbelt Rentals - Headquarters
303
Britax Child Safety
294
Performance Friction Corporation
280
Meritor
260
West Marine
253
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
61
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMUTING About 95% of Rock Hill residents drive to work (including 10% of which
work within the County, Figure 4.7. Thus the mean travel time for York
carpool), traveling about 24 minutes, Figure 4.8. According to ACS 2017
County residents is higher than that of Rock Hill, Figure 4.8. Compared to the
Community Survey results, 66% of Rock Hill residents travel within York
ring cities, Rock Hill has one of the highest percentages of residents living and
County for work while about 27% travel outside South Carolina for work.
working in the county of residence, Figure 4.9.
This is higher than the County; about 60% of those living in the County FIGURE 4.7 YORK COUNTY COMMUTING PATTERNS, 2015 Source: American Community Survey 2015, 5-Year Estimate
2,070
WORK IN OTHER STATES & COUNTIES
2,169
WORK IN OTHER S.C. COUNTIES
25,830
FROM OUTSIDE YORK COUNTY
40,843
65,998
WORK IN MSA COUNTIES
111,080
TOTAL WORKFORCE LIVING IN YORK COUNTY
62
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
WORK IN COUNTY OF RESIDENCE
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
FIGURE 4.8 MEAN TRAVEL TIME TO WORK, 2017 MINUTES
22
23
24
25
26
YORK COUNTY
27
JOBS
28
26.9
HOUSEHOLDS
26.5
USA & MSA SOUTH CAROLINA
24.3
Of the 9 counties in the MSA (excluding Mecklenburg County), York County is fourth in the jobs-to-households ranking. Those counties with a ratio less than .75 tend be serving as bedroom communities.
23.8
ROCK HILL
FIGURE 4.9 COMMUTING PATTERN COMPARISONS, 2017 Source: American Community Survey 2017, 5-Year Estimate
Worked in county of residence Worked in state but outside county of residence Worked outside state of residence 2%
1%
27%
7%
38%
ROCK HILL
MOORESVILLE 61%
66%
49%
49%
KANNAPOLIS
47%
4%
28%
CONCORD
52%
4%
2%
31%
MONROE
GASTONIA 68%
RATIO
Source: American Community Survey 2017, 5-Year Estimate
64%
MECKLENBURG
1.57
IREDELL
1.09
CABARRUS
.91
ROWAN
.86
YORK
.84
GASTON
.83
UNION
.74
LANCASTER
.65
LINCOLN
.59
CHESTER
.57
Source: American Community Survey 2012-2016 VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
63
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
TOURISM INDUSTRY [SPORTS TOURISM]
$22.6 BILLION 1 10 S.C. TOURISM INDUSTRY
S. C. TOURISM INDUSTRY SUPPORTS
IN
PALMETTO STATE JOBS
For decades, the City of Rock Hill has leveraged its natural and cultural assets to create a draw for visitors and locals. Tourism and specifically sports tourism took a leap forward in the mid-80s with the opening of Cherry Park. The Park’s success encouraged additional future investments such as -•
Manchester Meadows
•
Rock Hill Tennis Center
•
Giordana Velodrome
•
Rock Hill BMX Supercross Track
•
Rock Hill Sports & Event Center
A comprehensive list of Park, Recreation & Tourism (PRT) facilities are
$29 MILLION 92 EVENTS 80% EVENTS
CITY OF ROCK HILL, PRT 2019 TOURISM INDUSTRY
SPORTS TOURNAMENT 2019 SEASON
OF REVENUES FROM REPEAT
Source: S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism & S.C. Public Radio https://www.southcarolinapublicradio.org/post/how-sports-tourism-became-major-driver-rock-hill-s-economy
64
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
provided in the Community Facilities element. While these projects come with a price tag of millions of dollars, the City contributes budget successes by avoiding the practice of rollover projections. Instead, the City relies on counting ‘direct economic impact’. This entails PRT staff who take surveys of people visiting town to estimate the amount of money an event generates. It is estimated that sports tourism over the past 10 years generated -Cherry Park Manchester Meadows Cycling Center Tennis Center TOTAL
$64.7 million $95.1 million $35.1 million $5.3 million $200.2 million
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
INCENTIVES & BUSINESS SUPPORT South Carolina has historically been successful in recruiting businesses because of its aggressive incentive programs and tax breaks. Major incentive programs offered by the state include
MAP 4.5 TAX INCREMENT FINANCING (TIF) DISTRICTS
Jobs Tax Credits, Jobs Development Credits, and Sales Tax Abatements. The state also has several pro-business policies including elimination of corporate income taxes, sales tax exemptions, property tax incentives, and special discretionary incentives. LOCAL INCENTIVES York County and the City of Rock Hill offer local incentives
Red River
to support state programs and policies. County/City incentives include local property tax and tax abatements. Rock Hill also offers several incentives in Knowledge Park and Old Town including a Facade Rehabilitation Grant Program, Growth Management Incentives, and the coordination of various federal/ state tax credits. The City has also established tax-increment
Textile Corridor
financing (TIF) districts in Downtown, Textile Corridor, Red
Manchester
River, and Manchester, Map 4.5. In general, the City is shifting its focus from incentives for
Downtown
businesses to incentives for workforce development. The City, RHEDC, and others are partnering with educational institutions and businesses to build the quantity and quality of the talent pool through talent development assistance programs.
TIF Districts
Roads Planning Area
1 Mile
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
65
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
EMPLOYMENT CENTERS For the purposes of this plan document, employment centers are defined as areas where certain types of businesses are concentrated. In order to achieve synergistic land uses and appropriate densities, these centers can include mixed-use employment centers as well as business and industrial parks.
MIXED-USE EMPLOYMENT CENTERS KNOWLEDGE PARK
MAP 4.2 KNOWLEDGE PARK
Knowledge Park is a walkable, multi-faceted district that lays a foundation for a modern knowledge economy, reinventing the original heart of Rock Hill, Map 4.2. It includes the areas of -
•
Old Town
y rr
et
re
St
e
Ch
ven
University Center
dA
•
klan
Winthrop University
Oa
•
ue
Knowledge Park includes a Technology Incubator focused on assisting entrepreneurs in the form of workforce development as well as physical
Ma
in
that build on the City’s infrastructure investments in the heart of Rock
Joh
ns
Hill and will contribute to the continued revitalization of downtown. Some of these projects are listed here, however for the latest
to
nS
Eliz
Additionally, there are a number of development projects underway
abe
th L
ane
office needs and amenities. Learn more at the RHEUD website.
Str
ee
t
tre
et
information click here
66
•
University Center
•
Cotton Warehouse
•
The Thread
•
Comporium Headquarters
•
Good Motors Site
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Knowledge Park
Roads
1/2 Mile
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
RIVERWALK - RIVER DISTRICT & TOWN CENTER Riverwalk is a phased, master planned community located along the Catawba River. There are multiple mixed-use nodes within Riverwalk including the Town Center and the River District. The River District, Figure 4.10 includes office and apartments above retail and restaurants with single family residential within easy walking distance. While full build out is not yet complete as of this Plan, the Town Center is modeled after the urban Main Street and currently includes a grocer, YMCA, medical offices, and banking institution, Figures 4.11.
FIGURE 4.10 RIVERWALK, RIVER DISTRICT Source: Avencia Homes
FIGURE 4.11 RIVERWALK, TOWN CENTER Source: Avencia Homes
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
67
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
BUSINESS & INDUSTRIAL PARKS As mills closed in the 1980s and 1990s and unemployment rose, economic development became the leading priority.
This is when the RHEDC obtained a grant
from the federal Economic Development Administration to fund the infrastructure for an industrial park on the southeastern side of the city airport. Revenues from the Airport Industrial Park were then reinvested into the next business park - TechPark.
With convenience to
I-77 and Charlotte, TechPark appeals to manufacturers, distributors,
warehouses
and
logistics
companies.
Southland Industrial Park followed and helped to widen the array of offerings with characteristics to support heavy industrial including some sites with rail access. Waterford (1997) and Antrim Business Parks (early 2000) were then designed for big box warehouses, logistics and higher-end, light manufacturing.
Since then Southcross Corporate
Center, Aspen Commercial Park, and Legacy Parks West and East have been added to the offerings. This economic development has contributed to Rock Hill’s strength in the trade and logistics sector as noted in the above economic growth by industry section. To learn more about these Employment Centers and other site offerings visit here.
68
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
MAP 4.3 EMPLOYMENT CENTERS
E
I
B Employment Centers
F
C
G
A K H
D
A
Knowledge Park
B
Riverwalk - River District & Town Center
C
Riverwalk Business Park
D
Legacy Park East & West
E
Southcross Corporate Center
F
Aspen Commerce Park
G
Waterford Business Park
H
Antrim Business Park
I
Airport Industrial Park
J
Southway Industrial Park
K
TechPark Water Bodies Planning Area
J
Roads 1 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
69
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
OPPORTUNITY ZONES
On March 23, 2018, Governor Henry McMaster announced that he recommended, at the request of the City, four census tracts be designated as Opportunity Zones. Census tracts in Rock Hill designated as Opportunity Zones include areas comprising Knowledge Park, the Saluda Street corridor and the Albright Road corridor. These designations, after their finalization, are designed to jumpstart investment and spur economic development in Rock Hill. This program will provide a valuable financing tool to encourage significant economic development in the urban core. To learn more about Opportunity Zones, click here.
In addition to the sites and buildings listed on the RHEDC website as available for development, there are opportunities with special considerations such as areas within the opportunity zones of Rock Hill. Each has separate criteria and business support depending on the site. Map 4.4 shows the area covered by the Opportunity Zones as well as their relationship to the Knowledge Park area. MAP 4.4 OPPORTUNITY ZONES
Opportunity Zones
70
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Knowledge Park
Roads 1 Mile
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ORGANIZATIONS There are numerous agencies involved in economic development in York
Additional organizations at the County, regional and state levels support
County and Rock Hill. The following overview briefly describes these major
and integrate with these Rock Hill economic development groups. The list
agencies and provides links to further details.
below includes links to their respective websites for further details about their current goals and strategies.
ROCK HILL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION The Rock Hill Economic Development Corporation (RHEDC) is a non-profit
YORK COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
organization that represents the business, educational, and community interests
York County Economic Development (YCED) is the primary organization
of the City while promoting jobs and supporting growth. The EDC is managed
responsible for retaining and growing business and industry in York County.
by a 30 member Board of Directors comprised of representatives from local
Two of the major YCED plans include:
businesses, educational institutions, City Management, and City Council. The
•
Strategic Economic Development Plan
activities of RHEDC include the development, management and marketing
•
Target Industry Analysis
of business park properties, construction of speculative industrial buildings, operation of a technology incubator, partnerships with educational institutions in support of workforce/talent development, and marketing and recruitment of jobs and businesses to the area. RHEDC’s purpose is to support the economic development goals of the City of Rock Hill. ROCK HILL ECONOMIC & URBAN DEVELOPMENT The Rock Hill Economic and Urban Development (EUD) Department supports York County Economic Development’s efforts to retain and grow business and industry by making sure there are attractive sites and facilities for York County to market in Rock Hill. Current areas of focus include Knowledge Park, Old Town, and City industrial and business parks. The City also takes a lead role in marketing and recruiting businesses on City owned property. EUD staff also serves on the Rock Hill Economic Development Corporation (RHEDC).
ROCK HILL / YORK COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
The Rock Hill/York County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) promotes York County as a tourist destination and is a one-stop shop for planning a visit to the region with information about restaurants, hotels, events and things to do. YORK COUNTY REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The York County Regional Chamber of Commerce (YCRC) is a private, nonprofit organization made up of nearly 1,000 member businesses in the Fort Mill, Rock Hill, and Tega Cay areas. CATAWBA REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION The Catawba Regional Development Corporation is a nonprofit corporation through the Catawba Regional Council of Governments (CRCOG) that helps finance new or expanding businesses through loan and brownfield
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
71
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
programs. The CRCOG, with the alliance of the federal Economic Development Administration (EDA), supports growth and expansion of the local economy by providing financial assistance through loan programs including the SBA 504 program, the Revolving Loan Fund Program, and the Intermediary Relending Program. CHARLOTTE REGIONAL BUSINESS ALLIANCE The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance is a nonprofit, public/private economic development organization representing 15 counties in the Charlotte Region, including York County. SOUTH CAROLINA I-77 ALLIANCE The South Carolina I-77 Alliance is a nonprofit economic development coalition of York, Chester, Fairfield, and Richland Counties, formed in 2013 to promote the I-77 business corridor in South Carolina. SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE The South Carolina Department of Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses in South Carolina.
72
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
TRANSPORTATION
TRANSPORTATION An effective transportation network is crucial to the movement of goods, services, and people. Increased stresses will continue to be placed on the network as the region continues to grow. With limited resources available, addressing these issues will become more challenging. Smart planning and coordination will be important in making the best decisions for the region. This element discusses --
what the existing roadway, air, and multi-modal networks
who the Planning Organizations, Committees, and Commissions that are involved in the planning process
how how projects are funded, and transportation plans and studies that identify projects
and concludes with how the “What”, “Who”, and “How” work together to improve our overall transportation network.
“ “ ...other things being equal, that
town or city which has smooth,
substantial highways leading into it will far outstrip the one which is difficult to reach because of rough and neglected roads. – W.J. Cherry Rock Hill Businessman circa 1895
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
75
TRANSPORTATION
ROADWAY FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION
MINOR ARTERIAL
Functional classification is the process by which highways, roads, and streets
Minor arterials connect with principal arterials and provide access between
are grouped according to the character of traffic and the amount access they
smaller communities within the urban area.
provide to varying land uses. There are five classifications within the Planning Area which are highway, principal arterials, minor arterials, collectors, and
Minor arterials in the Planning Area include:
locals, Map 5.1.
•
Ebenezer Rd
•
Saluda St
•
India Hook Rd / Herlong Ave
•
Constitution Blvd
HIGHWAY
•
Mt. Gallant Rd
•
Charlotte Ave
Interstate 77 runs north/south along the eastern side of the Planning
•
Ebinport Rd
•
Oakland Ave
Area. It is the primary connection to both Charlotte and Columbia. COLLECTOR
PRINCIPAL ARTERIAL Principal arterials provide the highest level of service at higher speeds
for
long
uninterrupted
distances.
They
carry
traffic
into
Collector roads gather traffic from local roads and funnel them into the arterial network. Collectors in the Planning Area include:
and out of the region, and typically provide access to large-scale
•
Cel-River Rd / Red River Rd
•
Crawford Rd
developments like malls, major shopping centers, and regional parks.
•
Eden Terrace
•
White St
•
McConnells Hwy
•
Oakland Ave
•
McDow Dr
Principal arterials in the Planning Area include: •
US -21/SC-322 (Cherry Rd)
•
SC-901 (Heckle Blvd)
•
SC-161 (Celanese Rd)
•
SC-72 (Albright Rd)
LOCAL
•
SC-5 (Main St)
•
US-21 Bypass (Anderson Rd)
Local roads provide the most access and least amount of mobility. These
•
SC-122 (Dave Lyle Blvd)
roads generally connect to one another or to collector roads. They serve short distance travel and have low posted speed limits. An example are neighborhood roads within residential developments. Local roadways are the most common roadway type in the Planning Area.
76
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
TRANSPORTATION
MAP 5.1 ROADWAY FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION Source: City of Rock Hill GIS Department
Highway Principal Arterial Minor Arterial Collector Local Planning Area Boundary City Limits
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
77
TRANSPORTATION
ROADWAY OWNERSHIP & MAINTENANCE Roadways in the Planning Area are owned
FIGURE 5.1 ROADWAY OWNERSHIP
and maintained by either the South Carolina Department
of
Transportation
(SCDOT),
the City, the County, Catawba Indian Nation, privately, or jointly.
9%
South Carolina has the 4th largest state highway system and 36th lowest gas tax. This low tax and high mileage of highway leads to limited funding for repairs. In 2017, the State passed a 2 cent
17%
hike for six years to increase funding for repairs.
MILES OF ROADWAY
SCDOT started the Turnback Program in 2018 to lessen future maintenance costs of SCDOT roadways.
1,086
SCDOT will pay municipalities
55%
to take ownership of roadways based on the condition of the roadway.
Once ownership
is turned over to the municipality, it is
19%
responsible for all future maintenance costs.
Other
78
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
York County
Rock Hill
SCDOT
TRANSPORTATION
MAP 5.2 PUBLIC ROADWAY OWNERSHIP & MAINTENANCE Source: City of Rock Hill GIS Department
Rock Hill SCDOT York County Catawba Indian Nation Split Ownership Norfolk Southern Railroad/CSX Planning Area Boundary City Limits
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
79
TRANSPORTATION
ANNUAL AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC (AADT) VOLUMES & CONGESTION Traffic has continued to increase along most roadways in the City and Planning Area. The highest AADT volumes in the City are located along the interstate on Celanese Road (47,200), Cherry Road (37,500), and Dave Lyle Boulevard (37,300). Other roads with high volumes are Herlong Avenue, Anderson Road, and India Hook Road. AADT is not a good metric of congestion because it does not take into account functional classifications and roadway capacity. Volume to
MAP 5.3 2018 TRAFFIC COUNTS
MAP 5.4 VOLUME TO CAPACITY
Source: SCDOT
Source: RFATS 2017 Collector Road Study
Greater than 30,0000 20,000 - 30,000
1,000 - 5,000
10,000 - 20,000
Less than 1,000
5,000 - 10,000 80
Planning Area Boundary
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Under Capacity 3 Miles
Approaching Capacity At or Above Capacity
Planning Area Boundary 3 Miles
TRANSPORTATION
capacity is a ratio that compares the average daily traffic count to how many daily trips the road was designed to accommodate. In general, the roads with the most sections at or above, or near capacity are Celanese Road, Cherry Road, Heckle Boulevard, Herlong Avenue, and India Hook Road.
COLLISION DATA Between 2015 and 2017, there were over 20,000
MAP 5.5 COLLISION HOT-SPOTS Source: 2015-2017 SCDOT Collision Data
collisions in York County, approximately 7,750 within the City limits. Of these collisions, there was a total of 83 fatalities in the County, 13 of which were in the City. The highest concentration of collisions are located around the four I-77 interchanges within the City limits.
Other areas with an increased
prevalence of collisions are located at major roadway intersections like SC-161 and SC-901, Cherry Road and Oakland Avenue, Cherry Road and Charlotte Avenue, and India Hook Road and Celanese Road. High Low Planning Area Boundary City Limits
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
81
TRANSPORTATION
PUBLIC TRANSIT In July of 2019, the City began a fare-free public transit service in partnership with Winthrop
MAP 5.6 PUBLIC TRANSIT ROUTES Source: City of Rock Hill Planning and Development
University, Piedmont Medical Center, and Family Trust Federal Credit Union called My Ride. The City operates a fleet of all-electric buses that run along four key corridors seven days a week, Map 5.6. Service operates Monday-Saturday 7 AM to 7 PM and Sunday from 9 AM- 5 PM. Ridership was nearly 6,000 riders per week system-wide before COVID-19. ADA-compliant buses have free wifi, mobile charing ports, infotainment screens and bike racks. The transit hub is located at the parking deck in University Center. The CATS 82X offers service from Rock Hill to Charlotte during A.M. and P.M. peak hours. Pick up locations are at park-n-rides in Downtown on White Street and Manchester Meadows. York County Access is a more personalized public transportation service.
There are
two rider options during weekdays which must be scheduled 24 hours in advance. The Essential Services option takes riders to doctor appointments, the pharmacy, and store.
The
Peak Period option is used to get riders to and from their work. 82
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Downtown/ Knowledge Park Loop
Dave Lyle/ Galleria Line
Saluda/Heckle Loop
Cherry/Riverwalk Line
Railroad Planning Area Boundary City Limits 2 Miles
TRANSPORTATION
BIKE AND PED NETWORK The City has a robust network of bike faculties, share use paths, and sidewalks. The center of
MAP 5.7 BIKE AND TRAIL NETWORK Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development and Carolina Thread Trail
the City is laid out in a grid network and is wellconnected and walkable. Much of new bike, shared use path, and pedestrian facilities are funded and built by new development projects and Pennies for Progress. Per the City’s Zoning Ordinance, newer subdivisions built in the late 1990s are required to build sidewalks and all new collector roads must include bike lanes. The City advocates for the inclusion of bike and pedestrian facilities to Pennies for Progress, before they are voted on by the County residents. More detailed information on the bike and pedestrian network can be found in the Connect Rock Hill Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. .
of 210 miles sidewalks of 35 miles bikeways of 23 miles paths
Bikeways Existing Funded Proposed
Shared Use Paths Existing Funded Proposed
Carolina Thread Trail Planning Area Boundary City Limits
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
3 Miles
83
TRANSPORTATION
INTERSTATE 77 INTERCHANGE PROJECTS EXIT 82 A, B, & C RECONFIGURATION PROJECT The reconfiguration of Exit 82 will improve the safety and efficiency of the City's busiest interchanges. York County submitted an application for 3 interchange projects totaling $125.5. The South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank awarded the County approximately $75 million to reconfigure Exit 82 in Rock Hill and Exit 85 in Fort Mill. The project, which is years in the making, is being fast tracked by the $38 million it will receive from the grant. The project has not yet been designed so total cost for the project is unknown. Construction is anticipated to start in about five years.
EXIT 81 Rock Hill will have a new interchange at mile marker 81. The interchange will serve the Carolina Panthers NFL team's training facility. The project is being funded by a $40 million grant from the SC Department of Commerce, nearly $40 million grant from Infrastructure for Rebuilding America, $8 million from the Panthers organization, and $1 million from the City of Rock Hill. The total project costs is expected to be nearly $90 million. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2021 and be completed by 2023.
AIR The Rock Hill-York County airport (UZA) is operated by the City of Rock Hill and thus is included in the Community Facilities element, here.
FIGURE 5.2 I-77 INTERCHANGE, EXIST 82 PROJECT Source: SCDOT
CHARLOTTE DOUGLAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (CLT) Charlotte Douglas International Airport is located only 20 miles from Rock Hill. The airport has been undergoing renovations and expansions to handle the increase in passengers, which increased by nearly 275,000 passengers between 2017 and 2018 according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In July of 2019, the airport renovated and expanded Concourse A which added nine new gates. In total, there are $2.5 billion dollars worth of projects underway or planned to accommodate growth. Projects include expanding an existing runway, expand and renovate the terminal lobby, a new control tower (currently under construction), and a planned fourth runway.
84
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
TRANSPORTATION
MULTI-MODAL
PLANNING ORGANIZATIONS
The multi-modal freight network moves goods in and out of the City and
Transportation planning is handled by four organizations:
region. It is comprised of roadways, rails, and ports.
•
City of Rock Hill
•
South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT)
ROADWAY
•
Rock Hill-Fort Mill Area Transportation Study (RFATS)
Interstate 77 ranges between 120,000 and 52,000 AADT volumes, 4,000 of
•
York County Planning and Development & Pennies for Progress
which are trucks. These trucks pick-up and drop-off goods to businesses in
The organizations work together to ensure projects target the needs of the
the area.
citizens in the City, County, and region.
RAIL
CITY OF ROCK HILL
There are two main rail lines owned by Norfolk Southern and CSX that
The City of Rock Hill Planning and Development Department’s Transportation
serve a number of industrial customers in the City and County. There are 15
Manager is responsible for reviewing site plans and traffic analyses to ensure
intersections within the Planning Area where the trains will block traffic. The
new developments will not adversely impact the transportation network.
City of Rock Hill has made safety improvements to the crossings in Downtown
Additionally, the Transportation Manger is the principal contact for identifying
which has led to the area becoming a “whistle quite zone”.
and tracking transportation project needs.
PORT
The Transportation Manager has played a large role in the new public transit
Rock Hill is located near several ports. The closest port is the Inland Port in
system that began in summer of 2019. Further, the Transportation Manager
Greer, SC which 80 miles from Rock Hill and was opened in 2013. In 2018,
represents the City on the Traffic Commission and is a member of the RFATS
another Inland Port was opened in Dillon, SC. Both are served by rail and
Technical Team, both will be discussed later in this element.
roadway, and connect directly to the Charleston Harbor which is less than 200 miles from Rock Hill. The harbor won congressional approval in 2016 to be
The Long Range Planning staff conducts corridor studies, small area plans,
deepened to accommodate larger ships and is awaiting funding.
and functional plans that identify needed transportation improvements. Most recently, Long Range Planning staff has been working on the Connect Rock Hill Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan which is currently in final draft form. The City has an Airport Director who oversees day-to-day operations at the airport and the Airport Layout Plan and Airport Master Plan. VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
85
TRANSPORTATION
SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
ROCK HILL - FORT MILL AREA TRANSPORTATION STUDY
South Carolina Department of Transportation plays a large role in transportation
The Rock Hill-Fort Mill Area Transportation Study is the Metropolitan Planning
planning since over 50% of roads in the Planning Area are SCDOT-owned and
Organization (MPO) for eastern York County and the panhandle of Lancaster
maintained. All improvements made to these roads require SCDOT approval
County, and is one of more than 400 nationally, Map 5.9. MPOs carry out
and are generally fully or partially funded by SCDOT. SCDOT representatives
the transportation planning process for urbanized areas with populations
hold positions on the City’s Traffic Commission, and RFATS Technical Team
over 50,000. RFATS is responsible for long- and short-range transportation
and Policy Committee.
planning, and programming of all federal transportation funds in its boundary.
SCDOT allocates funding through both federal and state programs to
One of RFATS primary responsibilities include the maintenance and 5-year
jurisdictions to address transportation needs. Notable programs include:
update of the Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) which covers a 20-25
•
Congestion, Mitigation, & Air Quality Improvement Program (CMAQ)
year planning horizon. Below are the top federally funded projects identified in
•
Transportation Alternative Program (TAP)
the LRTP. There are three in Rock Hill which are highlighted below.
•
State Mass Transit Funds Program (SMTF)
•
Guideshare
TABLE 5.1 2045 LRTP TOP FEDERALLY FUNDED PROJECTS Source: RFATS 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan
PROJECT
86
2016 COST (millions)
Improve I-77 Interchange at SC 160
$24.8
Widen SC 160 from Rosemont-McMillan to Springfield Parkway (SC 460) from 3 to 5 lanes
$25.8
Improve I-77 interchange at Anderson Road (SC 5/US 21)
$5.2
Widen SC 160 from 4 to 6 lanes from US 21 to Sutton Road
$8.8
Improve I-77 Interchange at Celanese Road (SC 161) and Cherry Road (US 21) (Exits 82 A, B & C)
$62.1
Widen Cel-River/Red River Road to 5 lanes from Eden Terrace (S-645) to Dave Lyle Boulevard (SC 122)
$46.2
System Improvement Projects (Bridge Replacements, Safety, Road Widenings, Interstate Program)
$19.0
CMAQ (Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality Improvement Program)
$5.2
TAP (Transportation Alternatives Program)
$4.0
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
TRANSPORTATION
MAP 5.9 RFATS BOUNDARY Source: RFATS
RFATS Boundary Planning Area City Limits
4 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
87
TRANSPORTATION
Another primary responsibility of RFATS is
MAP 5.10 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS (TIP)
maintaining a short-term planning document
Source: RFATS FY 2017 - FY 2022 Transportation Improvement Program
called the Transportation Improvement Program or TIP which identifies projects that will be implemented over the next four to six years within the RFATS boundary. There are several TIP projects within the Planning Area which also include some Pennies for Progress projects that receive RFATS funding, Map 5.10. These projects are funded through the York County’s Pennies for Progress Program or through federal programs such as Transportation Alternative Program (TAP), Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality Improvement Program (CMAQ), and Federal Bridge programs. The LRTP and TIP documents, as well as other RFATS plans and information, can be found here.
Road Widening Bridge Rehab/Replacement Resurfacing
88
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
New Road Bike/Ped Improvement Intersection/Interchange Project
Railroad Planning Area Boundary City Limits
3 Miles
TRANSPORTATION
YORK COUNTY The County manages the Pennies for Progress Program. The program has provided funding for
MAP 5.11 PENNIES FOR PROGRESS PROGRAM PROJECTS [1997 - 2017] Source: York County GIS Department
transportation projects for over two decades. The forth referendum was approved by York County residents in late 2017. Projects include road widenings, resurfacings, bicycle & pedestrian improvements, interchange and intersection improvements, and safety improvements. More detailed information of Pennies for Progress projects can be found here. The York County Planning Department conducts transportation reviews for subdivision road and commercial access development plans as well as conducts transportation studies. They have also signed five County bicycle routes in recent years,
Completed
Design
Construction
Not Started/On-hold
Near Construction
Railroad Planning Area Boundary City Limits
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
3 Miles
89
TRANSPORTATION
COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS There are several committees within the City, RFATS region, and State
making recommendations on future programs and special events as well as
that review and make recommendations to elected officials, or guide policy
assisting with outreach programs that benefit the community and the Rock Hill
decisions and transportation planning processes.
Outdoor Center.
There are also local
committees that advocate for and promote bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
CITY/COUNTY AIRPORT COMMISSION
CITY COMMITTEES
The joint City/County Airport Commission advises the City Council on
ROCK HILL TRAFFIC COMMISSION
operational matters, and advises both the City and County Councils on
The Rock Hill Traffic Commission reviews and makes recommendations
planning and capital improvements.
to the City Council on ways to better manage local traffic issues, such as changes in posted speed limits, improvement of pavement markings, and
RFATS COMMITTEES
placement of traffic control devices. The Traffic Commission is made up of a
The City has at least one member on RFATS committees/teams that influence
City Council member, City staff, and a representative from SCDOT.
local transportation policy and programs.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE
RFATS POLICY COMMITTEE
The Parks and Recreation Committee creates policies and assists in the
The RFATS Policy Committee guides the RFATS planning process. The
administration the parks and recreation program. It is comprised on nine
committee is made up of 12 voting members, three of which are from the City
members appointed by City Council. There is a subcommittee called the Trails
of Rock Hill. They are responsible for debating and making policy decisions
& Greenways Advisory Committee that is charged with trails and greenway
on key MPO actions and issues, including adoption of the LRTP, TIP, annual
issues throughout the City.
planning work programs, budget, and other policy documents.
THE ROCK HILL OUTDOOR CENTER ADVISORY COMMITTEE
RFATS TECHNICAL TEAM
The Rock Hill Outdoor Center Advisory Committee is a 13 member
The RFATS Technical Team provides guidance to the Policy Committee on
cycling advisory group dedicated to raising private funds and sponsorships
operational, technical and other relevant policy requirements associated with
for the construction of the cycling amenities at the Rock Hill Outdoor
the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Process. The team includes staff
Center. Members of the group are appointed by the Parks and Recreation
from Rock Hill, Fort Mill, Tega Cay, York County, Lancaster County. and
Commission. Additional responsibilities include recruitment of volunteers,
the Catawba Indian Nation. There are also representatives from federal and
90
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
TRANSPORTATION
state agencies like the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Catawba Regional Council of Governments (CRCOG), and SCDOT. RFATS CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE In 2007, the RFATS Policy Committee created a Citizens Advisory Committee to provide input and review the RFATS’ transportation planning process and activities. Members include representation from the six RFATS communities and at-large members representing underserved populations.
SCDOT COMMISSION The SCDOT Commission is the administrative and governing authority of SCDOT. There are nine members, one member from each Congressional District and two at-large members, which are appointed by the Governor and subject to legislative approval.
LOCAL COMMITTEES There are several local groups that residents can get involved with that advocate for bicycle and pedestrian facilities as well as promote their usage. Below is a list of groups with links to their respective websites where applicable. •
Eat Smart, Move More York County
•
Bike/Ped Coalition of York County
•
Rock Hill Bicycle Club
•
Riverwalk Cycling Club
•
Rock Hill Mountain Bike Club
ALLIED PLANS & STUDIES
Many governmental and nongovernmental create transportation plans and studies to a guide transportation-related decisions in the region. Click on the Plan or Study name to learn more. CITY OF ROCK HILL
Strategic Plan
Defines measurable goals for increasing connectivity RFATS
Congestion Management Plan Update
Identify, address, and evaluate congestion in the region
Collector Road Study
Analyze collector road network and identify new future links
I-77 Corridor Study
Analyze land use and congestion from Lake Norman to Exit 77
Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Connectivity Plan
Develop a more complete, functional bike & ped network
Urban Area Transit Study
Study existing services and determine future transit needs YORK COUNTY
York County Thoroughfare Plan
Long-range plan for major transportation facilities CAROLINA THREAD TRAIL
Master Plan for York County Communities
Long-term coordination of greenway and trail development CENTRALINA COG
Regional Freight Mobility Plan
Identify, prioritize, address freight mobility issues
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
91
TRANSPORTATION
FUNDING SOURCES Transportation projects are expensive and funding is generally limited. Additionally, there are always more needs than funding so projects must be prioritized.
FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION 5307 PROGRAM This program provides funding for planning, operating, and capital needs to support transit service. Funds are provide for four fiscal years from when its awarded. The City has receives $225,000 annually.
FEDERAL AND STATE FUNDING SCDOT GUIDESHARE
Federal funds are distributed to the State which are allocated to the 11 MPOs based on the proportion of the MPOs population to the state’s urban population determined by the U.S. Census. RFATS receives $6 million and uses the funds to implement projects in the LRTP. TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES PROGRAM (TAP) This program aims to increase transportation choices and improve the transportation experience. The program is managed by RFATS who receives $112,000 which generally funds one project. Funds can be used for bicycle and pedestrian facilities, and streetscape improvements. The application is competitive due to the limited funding.
CMAQ funds are used to reduce congestion and improve air quality annually to address this issue.
These funds are a grant source managed by SCDOT that help municipalities fund local matches for federal transit funds. Eligible assistance categories include capital, administration, operations, and some contracted services. In recent years, the has received $135,000 to help fund the demand response bus service and the CATS 82x. SOUTH CAROLINA RECREATION TRAILS PROGRAM (RTP) Since 2010, the City has been awarded $400,000 in South Carolina RTP grants ($100,000 in 2010, 2012, 2015, and 2017). The program is designed to help states provide and maintain recreational trails for motorized and nonmotorized recreational uses such as hiking, biking, equestrian use, off-road motorcycling, and four-wheel driving. Recently, the City received another
CONGESTION MITIGATION AND AIR QUALITY (CMAQ) IMPROVEMENT FUNDS in areas that don’t meet federal standards.
STATE MASS TRANSIT FUNDS
RFATS receives $2 million
CMAQ funding can be used towards
public transit, improving traffic flow, bike and pedestrian facilities, and more.
$100,000 to extend the Catawba River Trail to Red River Road. OTHER FEDERAL GRANTS The City also received several other federal grants in FY19/20 for the operation of the bus system. These included: •
Over $2,725,000 from the FTA Low or No Emission Vehicle Program for the purchase of three buses.
•
Over $830,000 from SCDOT for bus purchases and charging infrastructure.
•
Nearly $3,850,000 from the CARES Act for operating and capital expenses for COVID response as well as funding for FY 20/21 & partially for FY21/22.
92
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
TRANSPORTATION
COUNTY FUNDING PENNIES FOR PROGRESS
Pennies for Progress is one of the largest funding sources for new transportation projects. The program levies a 1% sales tax on goods and services purchased in York County. There have been a total of four referendums passed by York County residents in 1997, 2003, 2011, and 2017. COUNTY TRANSPORTATION FUND (C-FUND) Funded through the gas tax, C-Fund is a partnership between SCDOT and counties to fund roadway improvement projects on any jurisdictional road. The County received nearly $720,000 in FY19/20, but funding varies from year-to-year and
$650 MILLION Pennies for Progress has budgeted approximately $650 million dollars in the four referendums for transportation projects and improvements.
has been as little as $300,000 in previous years. Each year, York County solicits requests from the jurisdictions, evaluates and prioritizes them, and the projects are approved by County Council. HOSPITALITY TAX FUND
CITY FUNDING GENERAL FUND
The City allocated $1.385 million to repaving in FY18/19, and plans to increase this budget by $250,000 annually. About $50,000 is also allocated for emergency sidewalk repairs and installation of ADA-compliant curb ramps. The City also allocates general funds to the construction of capital projects identified in City plans.
A two percent local hospitality tax is levied on consumers purchasing prepared foods and beverages from vendors located within the City of Rock Hill. About $100,000 from Hospitality Tax revenues is allocated to trail construction and about $50,000 is allocated to trail maintenance annually.
OTHER FUNDING SOURCES PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS
The City partnered with Family Trust Credit Union, Piedmont Medical Center, TAX INCREMENT FINANCING (TIF) DISTRICTS
and Winthrop University to fund the fixed-route public transit system. Funding
As mentioned in the Economic Development Element, there are four TIF
including capital purchases for the system as well as annual funding totaling
districts within the City. This financing tool can be used for public improvements
$400,000 from Family Trust Credit Union, Piedmont Medical Center, and
such as streets, sidewalks, and transit facilities within these districts.
Winthrop University for the operation of the system.
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
93
TRANSPORTATION
how it works th e t r a n s p o rtati o n p l anni n g p roc e ss
Identify & Prioritize Needs
[study, community engagement, etc.]
Potential Organization(s)
A
Sponsorship
rip T e ag r ve
-7 e m Ti
Y
r ea
s Funding [dollars]
Design & Review [project type dictates organizations involved ]
S.C. DOT RFATS York County Rock Hill Other
Potential Funding Sources RFATS Guideshare TAP CMAQ S.C. / Rock Hill RTP Mass Transit York County C-Fund Pennies For Progress Rock Hill General Fund TIF Hospitality Tax
Implementation
94
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Other Public-Private Partnerships
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
COMMUNITY FACILITIES The intent of the Community Facilities Element is to provide general
Facilities Element must be coordinated to reduce sprawl and minimize strain
information about the community facilities and services currently offered within
on infrastructure systems and community services.
Rock Hill and the larger Planning Area, with the exception of transportation related facilities, which are addressed in a separate element of this Plan (see
HOUSING ELEMENT Impact fees collected from new housing developments
Transportation Element). Community facilities and services are needed to
help fund capital infrastructure improvement projects while the availability of
provide basic levels of health and safety, while others help to maintain a high
facilities and services affect peoples’ housing decisions.
quality of life, promote job creation and create a more sustainable economy. Because these facilities and services are provided and maintained by a variety
TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT The availability or lack of transportation affects
of organizations, this element assesses both public- and private- sector utilities
peoples’ ability to participate in or benefit from the provision of certain
and community facilities in order to show the need for cooperation and a
community facilities and services.
shared vision. CULTURAL RESOURCES ELEMENT Cultural resources such as schools and This element presents an inventory and analysis of existing conditions and
libraries are important community facilities that offer programs and services
needs for capital facilities and utilities, community safety, education, and other
to enrich lives and enhance quality of life.
government facilities. As the City’s population grows, it may be necessary to build more facilities or consider providing new services. Rock Hill will be
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT The City’s economic growth
challenged to meet the additional demand while maintaining levels of service
and ability to attract and retain employers is largely dependent on the
for current constituents. Through this element, Rock Hill and its partner
infrastructure, services and amenities available.
agencies can better ensure that the current and future infrastructure needs of the community are met as the population continues to grow.
PRIORITY INVESTMENT ELEMENT Through this element, planned public infrastructure and facilities’ projects are prioritized and coordinated with
The Community Facilities Element is directly related to many of the elements
adjacent and relevant jurisdictions and agencies.
in the Plan as follows: LAND USE ELEMENT Land development patterns are largely determined by available infrastructure and services, such as water, sewer, electric, fire protection, and school locations. The Land Use Element and Community VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
97
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
UTILITY SYSTEMS WATER
MAP 6.1 WATER & WASTEWATER SERVICE TERRITORIES
The City of Rock Hill has owned, operated, and maintained its own Water Filter Plant (WFP) and distribution system since 1911. Through these facilities, the City provides potable water service to the majority of residential, retail/ commercial, and industrial facilities and/or structures within the City limits. The City also serves as the regional provider for potable water, servicing select properties in the City’s Water and Sewer Service Territory that extends outside the Planning Area as well as wholesale customers (i.e., York County, City of York, Town of Fort Mill, and the Catawba Indian Nation), Map 6.1. These wholesale customers serve other unincorporated areas of the County, the Lake Wylie Community including River Hills, the City of York and outlying areas, and the majority of Fort Mill Township including the City of Tega Cay and Town of Fort Mill. RAW WATER INTAKE/PUMPING The City obtains its source water from the Catawba River, the majority of which is withdrawn from Lake Wylie. The City has permitted its (raw) water withdraw up to 60 million gallons per day (MGD) to accommodate future water system growth. To provide adequate capacity, the City upgraded its intake facility’s pumping capacity in 2013 from 30 MGD to 48 MGD to
Rock Hill
York County
City of York
Fort Mill
Riverview
Planning Area
accommodate the planned 36- to 48-MGD expansion to the City’s WFP. 0.5 Miles
Raw water from the Lake Wylie Intake Facility is transported through a 54inch pipe to the WFP. In 2008, the City updated the Catawba River Raw Water Intake Facility to provide additional raw water pumping capacity (up to 6 MGD) for peak
98
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
usage times and emergency purposes. Raw water from the Catawba River Raw
WFP - FINISHED WATER PUMPING CAPACITY
Water Intake Facility is transported through a 20-inch pipe to the WFP. The
The City completed construction of a new high-service pump station at its
locations of these two intake facilities are shown on Map 6.2.
WFP to accommodate the 36- to 48-MGD expansion in 2016. This pump
WATER FILTER PLANT Originally built in 1949, the City’s WFP is being expanded to increase its
station has adequate pumping capacity to push the needed finished water from the WFP and into the distribution system.
treatment capacity from 36 MGD to 48 MGD. Construction is anticipated to
FINISHED WATER STORAGE
be complete in 2021. The current demands on the plant are about half that
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control
amount, and therefore it is believed that the current permitted capacity will
(SCDHEC) recommend that public water systems have storage equal to or
accommodate water system growth through the 2020 planning horizon. The
in excess of one-half of its maximum day demand. This added storage volume
location of the WFP is shown on Map 6.2.
allows the pumps to rest at periods throughout the day, to provide water during prolong service interruptions, and to provide water for fire emergencies.
Although plant capacity is adequate through the 2020 planning horizon, several factors have been introduced that create the need for additional future capacity
The City currently has three underground storage tanks located at the WFP.
at the plant. The City of York decommissioned its WTP on West Liberty Street
These three tanks have a total storage capacity of 3 million gallons. The City
in 2019. They were pulling approximately 600,000 gallons per day prior to
also has five elevated water storage tanks on its distribution system with a total
the closure and added an additional 1.6 MGD after the closure. Additionally,
capacity of 4.75 million gallons. With this volume, the City needs additional
several businesses have expressed an interest in locating in Rock Hill or the
storage on its system to meet SCDHEC recommendations, and is currently
surrounding area, many of which have indicated large water demands.
evaluating sites for a new elevated water storage tank.
The WFP operates a laboratory to monitor water quality according to
EMERGENCY WATER CONNECTIONS
national drinking water standards as required by the Safe Drinking Water
York County currently has four emergency water connections in place with
Act (SDWA). The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental
Charlotte Water. Three of these connections are located in the Carowinds
Control (SC DHEC) serves as a coordinating agency for the State’s Source
area. The fourth connection is located near River Hills at Buster Boyd Bridge in
Water Assessment and Protection Program (SWAP), providing assessments
the Lake Wylie Community. In case of a major emergency, temporary booster
and implementing safeguard measures to further protect the health of public
stations can be installed to back feed the water systems in York County.
water system consumers.
However, the system has not been modeled, and therefore it is not known how much the City of Rock Hill can receive through this avenue if needed. VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
99
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.2 WATER FACILITIES Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Water Filter Plant
Surface Water Intakes Water Tanks Active Water Lines Proposed Water Lines Water Service Area Planning Area
3 Miles
100
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Emergency connections to the surrounding water systems owned and operated by Chester Metropolitan District (Chester Metro) and Lancaster County
WATER [FAST FACTS]
Water and Sewer District (LCWSD) are not possible due to incompatibilities
60 MGD permitted water withdrawal
in the disinfectants used in their systems (The City of Rock Hill and Charlotte
32K+ Customers
Water use chlorine as a disinfectant while Chester Metro and LCWSD use
5 Wholesale Customers
chloramines).
20K+ MGD 2018 ADD 2 Intake Facilities
HISTORIC WATER DEMANDS AND REVENUE
1 Water Filter Plant
Figure 6.1 shows the average daily demands (ADDs), number of water
521 Miles of Waterline Pipe
customers, and water sales over the past 10 years. Although the ADD has significantly increased over the past year due to an increase in new development permitted capacity of the WFP will be adequate to serve the water demands
FIGURE 6.1 WATER CUSTOMERS, REVENUE & DEMAND Source: City of Rock Hill Finance Department
Customer Base
Average Daily Demand (ADD)
Customers
through 2021, when the 36 MGD to 48 MGD expansion has been completed.
Revenue
33000
More than 32,500 customers located within the Rock Hill
Water and Sewer Utility Service Territory are served by the City’s water
25
32000
system - a 13 percent increase between 2009 and 2018 (see Figure 6.1). The
20
Water Department reports that about 84 percent of the City’s water system
There are also tens of thousands of customers that are served outside the Rock Hill Water and Sewer Utility Service Territory by the City’s wholesale customers - York County, the City of York, the Town of Fort Mill, the City
NO. OF CUSTOMERS
customers reside within the Rock Hill City limits.
31000 15
30000
29000
10
28000
of Tega Cay, which receives its water from the Town of Fort Mill, and the Catawba Indian Nation. The majority of these wholesale customers have experienced substantial customer growth over the past 10 years as well, and customer growth is anticipated to continue throughout the planning horizon.
5
DOLLARS / GALLONS PER DAY (MILLIONS)
and the number of irrigation systems installed, it is anticipated that the current
27000
0
26000
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
101
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Water Demand To help project water demand, the City of Rock Hill requires
WASTEWATER
its wholesale customers to submit projections each year of their anticipated
Rock Hill established a wastewater system in 1911. The City’s system includes
water demands five years into the future. The City also performs an analysis
a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) and collection system. Through these
on its system demand, and these projections are combined and compared
facilities and subsequent extensions and new construction, the City provides
to the WFP capacity. Review of the water demand as depicted in Figure 6.1
sanitary sewer service to the majority of residential, retail/commercial, and
shows a decrease in water demands between 2009 and 2013. Staff believes
industrial facilities and/or structures within the City limits. It also serves select
that the City’s response to a severe drought in 2007 caused the drop. In order
portions of the City’s Water and Sewer Service Territory that extends beyond
to protect raw water supplies for the City and downstream (Catawba River)
the Planning Area as shown on Map 6.1, 6.3. Sewage is also received by the
water service providers, the City began an initiative to strengthen its water
City from its wholesale customers that serve customers outside the City’s
conservation efforts. It is believed that these efforts played a significant role
Water and Sewer Service Territory. The wholesale customers include York
in reducing the water demands. (See the Water Conservation Section in the
County, City of Tega Cay, and the Catawba Indian Nation. These wholesale
Natural Resources Element for more information on the City’s conservation
customers serve others located in the unincorporated areas of the County,
efforts.)
the Lake Wylie Community, including River Hills, and the properties located outside the area served by the Town of Fort Mill.
Water Sales/Revenue Water Fund revenues primarily consist of revenue generated from the sale of water, collection of Meter Base Fees, and collection
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT/TREATMENT CAPACITY
of impact fees. A small portion of the revenue is generated through penalties.
The Manchester Creek WWTP was built in 1970. The plant was expanded in
As indicated in Figure 6.1, water sales grew steadily from 2013-2018. The
1991, 1996, and most recently in 2001. The current treatment and/or permitted
2018 water budget is more than $21 million, making water sales the third-
capacity for the facility is 20 MGD. Effluent from the plant is discharged to the
largest source of utility revenues for the City of Rock Hill. The three largest
Catawba River. The location of the plant is shown on Map 6.3.
users of the City’s water system included the Town of Fort Mill, York County, and the Winthrop University (FY18). The City began implementing a water
SCDHEC tracks capacity of the WWTP based on the highest annual average
impact fee in FY04 to help offset utility revenue bonds issued to fund needed
daily flows for the last three years, and also by the City’s commitments for
improvements. Approximately $2.21 million in water impact fees have been
granting wastewater treatment capacity once the highest annual average daily
collected since the impact fee was initiated. The amount of impact fees collected
demands exceed 80 percent of the plant capacity. Based on the last three years,
varies greatly from year to year with the rise and fall of new construction, and
the hydraulic capacity is 13.46 MGD, Figure 6.2. The City of Rock Hill has
as a result are viewed as a supplemental revenue source.
made the commitment to be the regional provider for wastewater treatment. To further assure the City will have adequate wastewater treatment capacity
102
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.3 WASTEWATER FACILITIES Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Wastewater Treatment Plant Lift Stations Sewer Lines Sewer Service Area Planning Area
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
103
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
available for future customers, the City has begun construction of upgrades at the WWTP.
WASTEWATER [FAST FACTS] 20 MGD permitted water withdrawal
The Early Work/Clarifier Project is currently under construction. For this
33K+ Customers
work, the City will construct a third final clarifier and pump station. Once the
3 Wholesale Customers 10.4 MGD 2018 ADD
new clarifier construction is complete, the each of the existing two clarifiers
1 Wastewater Treatment Plant
will be taken out of service one at a time, so that the mechanisms can be
493 Miles of Wastewater Pipe
replaced and their associated pump stations upgraded. In addition, there are
21 Lift Stations
critical structural repairs being made to the Dewatering Building. Completion of this work is anticipated in 2021. At the first of 2020, construction will start on a new Headworks for the WWTP. This work will include a new influent
FIGURE 6.2 WASTEWATER CUSTOMERS, SALES & DEMAND
pump station with course screening, new fine screening and grit removal,
Source: City of Rock Hill Finance Department
Customers
Average Daily Demand
a new flow equalization basin, odor control, new electrical systems, and a
Revenue
new SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) system. Completion
35000
of this work is anticipated in 2023. The City also has plans to increase the
25
20
NO. OF CUSTOMERS
33000
32000
15
31000 10
30000
29000 5
evaluating the nutrient capacity of the Lower Catawba River Basin. Results of the SCDHEC study could result in more stringent regulations for the WWTP. It is anticipated that new regulations could be in place by 2023. WASTEWATER COLLECTION SYSTEM The average age of the City’s collection system piping is approximately 35 years. The Utilities Department is continually improving and/or updating the collection system by replacing older, inefficient piping as part of its Water and Sewer Utilities Capital Improvement Plan. Piping replacement projects are planned to increase capacity to accommodate new development, reduce the
28000
0
27000
2009 104
DOLLARS / GALLONS PER DAY (MILLIONS)
capacity of the WWTP. Conceptual plans are prepared; however SCDHEC is 34000
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
2017
2018
amount of inflow and infiltration into the system, and to remove some of the City’s maintenance-intensive pump stations from service. Collection system
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
piping is also being extended by developers to serve new projects. HISTORIC WASTEWATER LOADINGS AND REVENUE Customer Base In 2018 almost 34,000 customers were served by the City’s wastewater system - a 14 percent increase since 2009, Figure 6.2. The Wastewater Department reports that nearly 91 percent of the City’s wastewater system customers reside within the Rock Hill City limits.
ELECTRIC The City has operated the electric system since 1911. The system provides electric service to more than 37,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers within the City limits. This is a nine percent increase since the last Plan update in 2014 of 34,000 customers. Map 6.4 shows the Rock Hill Electric service area and territory as well as those of the other electric providers. MAP 6.4 ELECTRIC SERVICE TERRITORIES
Hydraulic Loadings Although the number of customers has risen every year, wastewater hydraulic loadings have fluctuated over the past 12 years. This fluctuation is believed to be the result of variations in drought conditions and wet weather events, water conservation, increased development, and reduction of inflows and infiltration due to piping upgrades. Wastewater Revenue
Wastewater Fund revenues primarily consist of
revenues from sewer charges and base fees, although other sources include various surcharges, fees, and penalties. The City began implementing a wastewater impact fee in FY04 to help offset utility revenue bonds issued to fund needed improvements. Over $3.69 million in wastewater impact fees have been collected since the Wastewater Impact Fee Fund was initiated. The amount of impact fees collected varies greatly from year to year with the rise and fall of new construction, and as a result are viewed as a supplemental revenue source. As shown in Figure 6.2, revenues from wastewater fees have increased 40 percent over the last 10 years. With a budget of more than $25 million in FY18, wastewater fees currently represent the second-largest source of utility revenues for the City of Rock Hill. The three principal wastewater customers based on revenues include York County, City of Tega Cay, and Rock Hill Schools (FY18).
Rock Hill
York Electric Cooperative
Duke Energy
Planning Area
0.5 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
105
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS The City purchases the majority of its electric power, about 85 percent, from
ELECTRIC [FAST FACTS]
Piedmont Municipal Power Agency (PMPA). The City purchases an additional
264 Miles Overhead Primary Lines 379 Miles Underground Lines 7,994 Street Lights 8,156 Security Lights 37 Distribution Feeder Circuits [25K volts] 23 City Owned Signalized Intersections 106 SCDOT Owned Signalized Intersections 377 AMI Infrastructure Devices
37K+ Customers 8 Substations 40K Electric Meters 22,952 Poles 8,193 Transformers
four to six percent of its power from Southeastern Power Administration and the remaining electricity needs are met through supplemental sources. The number of residential and non-residential electric customers grew 11 percent and 5 percent respectively from 2009-18, Figure 6.3. About 90 percent of all electric system customers reside within the City limits. With a budget of more than $116 million in FY19, electric sales currently represent the largest source of utility revenues for the City of Rock Hill, Figure 6.3. City Council has not approved rate increase since FY17.
FIGURE 6.3 ELECTRIC SYSTEM CUSTOMERS Source: City of Rock Hill Finance Department
Excluding the City of Rock Hill government offices and operations, the three
Commercial Customers
Residential Customers
largest electric customers based on revenues include Rock Hill Schools,
Revenue
Piedmont Medical Center, and Comporium Communications. The City 40000
operates numerous emergency standby/load management generation units in 100
35000
various City facilities that provide power during outages. The most significant of these units are located at the Water Filter Plant, Manchester Wastewater
30000
60 20000
15000
40
DOLLARS (MILLIONS)
NO. OF CUSTOMERS
25000
combined capacity of 14.6MW. The City is continuously expanding & upgrading its electric infrastructure, including implementation of Distribution Automation devices & remote communications. The City has been installing SCADA switches & reclosers since 2012 to minimize impacts to our customers when power outage events
10000 20 5000
occur. The City has been systematically replacing and upgrading the system in downtown since 2006The City is also strategically burying overhead utility
0
0
2009 106
Treatment Plant, Raw Water Intake, and the Operations Center, which have a
80
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
2018
lines as roadway projects occur, and upgrading the performance & efficiency of street lighting throughout the City with LED technology & controls.
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.5 ELECTRIC FACILITIES Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Substations Electric Service Lines Planning Area Boundary 3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
107
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
TELECOMMUNICATION COMPORIUM GROUP
Facilities and Operations
The Comporium Group provides telephone, long distance, wireless,
Mobility and real time communications is essential for most City operations
cable TV, Internet, security, data services and directory publishing to over
today and as such the city relies heavily on both cellular and Wi-Fi services.
95,000 residential and commercial customers in the greater Rock Hill area.
The Wi-Fi system is comprised of a mesh network, which covers over 50 plus
Comporium has a franchise agreement with the City to provide cable television
square miles and is designed to leverage City owned fiber optic communication
service. Comporium provides Zipstream services, a state-of-the-art fiber-optic
services for even higher performance, Map 6.6. The Wi-Fi infrastructure
network, to Knowledge Park and many of the industrial and business parks in
communicates through various network wireless routers mounted on security
Rock Hill including Waterford Business Park, Airport Industrial Park, Rock Hill
lights and traffic poles strategically placed throughout the City. Any City vehicle
Industrial, Riverwalk Business Park, and Southcross Corporate Center.
can be equipped with network wireless routers allowing WI-FI or cellular
CENTURY-LINK
mobile connectivity. This means all City services are available to employees regardless of their location, even when vehicles are in full motion; this greatly
In the last two years Century-Link has also entered into the Rock Hill market
enhances services for public safety, utility and operational fleet vehicles. The
as a business Internet Service Provider (ISP), providing Gigabit technologies
Wi-Fi communications system is today fully matured and is utilized by all City
and internet security services to area businesses. This tier one provider will
departments. The City is completing a project that will use the Wi-Fi system
soon be bringing new services and capabilities to the entire Rock Hill region.
to address some of the communication needs and backhaul services of the
CITY OF ROCK HILL
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project.
Over the past 20 years the City has been a technology leader and has made significant investments into technologies that are integral to efficient and viable
The City's communications systems are continuously being maintained and
government services. In 2001, the City installed its first fiber optic network
improved to keep up with changes and advancements in technology. Backhaul
to inter-connect all its facilities as the City's primary backhaul for its data
technologies on the three existing towers and the network routers were
centers, services, and Wi-Fi systems. Fiber optic technologies are the core
upgraded in 2018 and 2019 to maintain and extend service viability. To
to connecting the 40 plus city facilities along with the AMI & Wi-Fi collectors
manage this extensive system properly, the City has begun incremental yearly
and backhaul points feeding all the city customer services, utilities and traffic
upgrades to critical infrastructure, such as the technology on the backhaul
controls. In 2006, the City built and began operating a Wireless Fidelity, or
towers and modifying the mesh structures and adjust overall coverage areas.
Wi-Fi, communications system covering most of the incorporated areas of the
The City is also exploring hybrid solutions that combine wireless and cellular
City with focus on public spaces and venues. The system, which expands as the
technologies, and is looking at ways to leverage existing resources, like co-
City grows, is the largest municipal wireless network in the southeast.
locating on existing cell towers or focusing coverage areas, to reduce costs.
108
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.6 TELECOMMUNICATIONS, CITY OWNED, FACILITIES Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
TELECOMMUNICATIONS* [FAST FACTS] *City owned infrastructure
100 Fiber Facilities 420 Fiber Junctions 1,048 Wi-Fi Routers 101 miles of INSTALLED fiber 32 miles of PROPOSED fiber 50+ Square Miles Wi-Fi Coverage 9 Wireless Data Concentrator Units (DCU)
Wireless DCUs Fiber Facilities Fiber Junctions Proposed Fiber Lines Installed Fiber Lines Planning Area Boundary
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
109
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
NATURAL GAS York County Natural Gas Authority provides residential, commercial, and
York County Natural Gas Authority, which renovated the original Pepsi-Cola
industrial gas service to customers throughout York County and the northeast
Bottling Plant at the corner of Cherry Road and West Main Street in 1986,
portion of Cherokee County, Map 6.7. Incorporated areas include Rock Hill,
plans to complete a major renovation in 2020. This update will include a
Fort Mill, York, Clover, Tega Cay, Lake Wylie, Smyrna, McConnells, Sharon,
larger appliance showroom that highlights the many different residential and
Hickory Grove, and Blacksburg. The unincorporated area of York County is
commercial uses of natural gas.
also served. Map 6.8 depicts the location of the Authority’s facilities relative to the Planning Area. While not every area has service, most residential subdivisions have service as well as all industrial parks. The Authority’s Customer Center is located at 965 West Main Street, Rock Hill.
PATRIOTS ENERGY GROUP (PEG) In 2003, the gas authorities in York, Chester and Lancaster counties officially formed a joint action agency called Patriots Energy Group (PEG) to work in partnership to more effectively manage natural gas pipeline capacity and supply. In 2011, PEG completed construction of a 39.4-miles natural gas pipeline which is connected to the Williams Transco pipeline in Blacksburg, SC. Today, York
MAP 6.7 YCNGA SERVICE TERRITORY & DISTRIBUTION AREA
County Natural Gas Authority, as the pipeline operator, manages over 69 miles of transmission pipeline and 16.6 miles of distribution pipeline. The customers of the three gas authorities have saved millions of dollars in pipeline capacity charges since the pipeline was put into service. The Authority and PEG continue to enhance capacity for future growth through the addition of lateral pipelines on the system. PATRIOTS ENERGY GROUP FINANCING AGENCY (PEGFA) In 2018, the gas authorities in York, Chester and Lancaster counties formed a joint action agency called Patriots Energy Group Financing Agency (PEGFA) to allow for the issuance of prepaid gas debt. In July of 2018, PEGFA sold $832,350,000 of Gas Supply Revenue Bonds, which provided a first year savings to YCNGA of over $1,300,000. The projected lifetime savings over 30 years is estimated to be $60,000,000.
110
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.8 YCNGA SERVICE AREA Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
NATURAL GAS [FAST FACTS] 850 Miles of Distribution Lines (in planning area) 1,700 Miles of Distribution Lines
(in service area)
7,974,460 dekatherms gas purchased year (12-months ending August 2019)
32K+ Customers
(in planning area)
68K+ Customers
(in service area)
27 Natural Gas Powered Vehicles
Natural Gas Lines Planning Area Boundary
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
111
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
SOLID WASTE The Rock Hill Public Works Department provides residential and commercial
is currently in Year three of a five year contract with Waste Management for
sanitation services including solid waste collection, disposal, and recycling
disposal at their Richland County facility; expiring October 2021. According
services to properties within the City of Rock Hill and select residences and
to the 2018 SCDHEC Solid Waste Management Annual Report, the Richland
businesses located in unincorporated areas around the City limits.
facility has 31 years of remaining capacity. Construction, demolition, land clearing debris, and certain household hazardous
SOLID WASTE [FAST FACTS] 21K+ Customers 38,512 Tons of Garbage (annual average) 3,948 Tons of Recycle (annual average) 6 City Collection & Recycle Centers 10 County Collection & Recycle Centers
materials are received at the York County landfill. As of July, 2019, the York County Construction and Demolition (C&D) Landfill has an estimated 3.5 years of remaining life based on current tonnages received. The County is currently in preliminary planning of new permitted expansion. There is another permitted (C&D) landfill open to the public in York County; Coltharp Landfill in Fort Mill. RECYCLING The City also offers weekly curbside recycling services to all residential
GARBAGE
households. Currently all residential households are provided recycling bins.
The City provides weekly curbside waste collection to all residential households
Residents may also take recycling to any of the York County Collection and
in the City (over 23,000 residential sanitation customers), Map 6.9. Electronic
Recycling Centers. Recycling services are available by contract to commercial,
items are not picked up curbside, but residents can take them to the Rock Hill
industrial, educational, and multi-family residential uses. The City also has a
Operations Center. Residents can also take electronics, as well as garbage and
recycling contract with Rock Hill School District Three. Recyclables are taken
paint, to any of the 16 York County Collection and Recycling Centers – six of
to the Pratt Industries Plant on Cel-River Road.
which are located in Rock Hill. The City also provides commercial garbage and Dial-A- Dumpster services to just under 1,500 customers. Solid waste generated in Rock Hill is transported to the York County Solid Waste Transfer Station where it is processed and loaded onto trailers for transport and disposal to a landfill facility in Richland County, SC. York County 112
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
WASTE AND RECYCLING TRENDS Between FY16/17 and FY17/18, the City saw a four percent increase in the amount of commercial garbage generated and a three percent increase between FY17/18 and FY18-19. Residential garbage generated experienced a similar trend with a three percent increase and a two percent increase over the same
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
respective time frames, Figure 6.4. Curbside bulky trash saw an increase of
Cardboard recycling saw a modest increase of four percent from FY16/17 to
six percent from FY16/17 to FY17/18 and then a two percent increase from
FY17/18 and seven percent from FY18-19. Residential recycling rose by six
FY17/18 to FY18-19. While mixed paper recycling declined from FY16/17 to
percent from FY16/17 to FY17/18 and again by two percent from FY17/18 to
FY17/18 by three percent, it rose by two percent from FY17/18 to FY18-19.
FY18-19, Figure 6.4.
FIGURE 6.4 WASTE & RECYCLING TRENDS
MAP 6.9 SOLID WASTE & RECYCLE ROUTES
Source: City of Rock Hill Public Works
45000
2500
2000
35000 30000
1500 25000 20000 1000 15000 10000
RECYCLE GENERATION (TONS)
GARBAGE GENERATION (TONS)
40000
500
5000 0
FY16/17
FY17/18
FY18/19
Commercial
Mixed Paper
Residential
Cardboard
Curbside / Bulky Trash
Residential Recycling
0
Route 1 [Monday]
Route 4 [Thursday]
Route 2 [Tuesday]
Planning Area Boundary
Route 3 [Wednesday]
0.5 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
113
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
STORMWATER In the early 1990’s, City Council recognized the need to address the City’s
The City began implementing a stormwater fee in 1996 to fund maintenance,
failing and undersized stormwater systems. The City appointed a citizen
repairs, and improvements to the drainage system. Fees have increased over
Task Force in 1995, established a Stormwater Division in 1996, as well as
time as needs continue to grow, the most recent increase was approved in
a Stormwater Advisory Board. Rock Hill became a federally designated
FY17. Fees are used to help fund replacement and upgrade projects.
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II community in 2004. The federal regulations establish six categories of Best Management
In 2013, the Stormwater Division developed a Neighborhood Stormwater
Practices (BMPs) that must be implemented including public education, public
Project List of needed neighborhood stormwater projects. The project list,
involvement, illicit discharge detection and elimination, construction site
which is developed through a variety of means including the mapping of storm
stormwater runoff management, post construction stormwater management,
drains and citizen reporting via the City’s storm water hotline, is continuously
and good housekeeping and pollution prevention. For details on the programs
updated as new needs arise. As of December 2014, over $22 million in
and policies initiated by the City see the Stormwater Management section of
replacement and upgrade projects have been identified. Projects on the
the Natural Resources Element.
Neighborhood Stormwater Project List are funded through operating funds. Between 2010 and 2012, the Stormwater Division also performed a master
STORMWATER [LINK IT] Stormwater Programs & Policies here
plan study to identify potential flood prone areas outside of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood zones. The Stormwater
Stormwater Management Design Manual here
Division used this information to develop a Stormwater Master Plan Capital
Neighborhood Stormwater Project List here
Improvement Program list. Projects are prioritized based on the number of
Master Plan Study projects here
residents affected, system condition, and whether the structure is located on a
300 miles of stormwater pipe
City street. This list is also continuously updated as new needs are identified.
357 detention ponds
Currently about 112 projects are identified on the list; of these 41 projects are City capital projects totaling an estimated $75M. The other projects are a combination of private, SCDOT, outside City limits and FEMA error initiatives. The City has completed the first nine identified projects at a cost of about $8.4M and plans to complete projects 10 and 11 on the list are estimated at a cost of $4.5M with a loan in 2019. 114
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.10 STORMWATER FACILITIES Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Stormwater Lines Planning Area Boundary
2 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
115
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
PUBLIC SAFETY POLICE PROTECTION
Fargo Street Substation The Fargo Street station is located at 313 Fargo Street in Rock Hill and is
The Rock Hill Police Department (RHPD) provides police services within
owned by the Housing Authority. We are the only tenants of this facility,
the City’s jurisdiction. The Department has advanced metoris accreditation
which houses our Street Crimes and Traffic unit. Although not manned 24
through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies
hours a day, this station serves as place for officers to conduct roll calls, have
(CALEA) meaning that the department complies with state-of-the-art standards
meetings and work on special projects.
of excellence in law enforcement services that meet National Standards.
Training Annex
FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS RHPD operates three facilities including the Law Center, Hagins Street Substation, Fargo Street Substation as well as has a facility for training, referred to as he Training Annex. RHPD employs 156 sworn officers and 49 civilian personnel. Police patrol services cover ten geographic zones, Map 6.11.
Law Center The Law Center, located at 120 East Black Street, houses all formal police business including patrol, the Communications Center, records, a training room, an 16-bed holding facility, administration functions, and the Rock Hill Municipal Court which renders judicial decisions on all traffic violations and certain criminal offenses which occur within City limits.
The Training Annex is located at the Worthy Boys and Girls Camp at 2352 Worthy Boys Road. This facility supports training needs and contains full video and computer capabilities.
Investigative Services The RHPD is responsible for preliminary and follow-up criminal investigation of all reported serious crimes against persons and/or property. Detectives are assigned to the unit work in varying specialties like the Drug Enforcement Unit, Violent Crimes Unit, and Forensic Services Unit. The Investigative unit also partners with local, state and federal agencies to serve in areas of investigation. Some of these areas include: Domestic Violence Fatality Review committee, Child Death Investigation task force, Internet Crimes against children’s task force, and the Electronic crimes task force, The City also employs a civilian
Hagins Street Substation
Law Enforcement Victim Advocate (LEVA) to provide support to the victims
The Hagins Street Substation is located at 46 Sunset Drive in the Hagins/Fewell
and eyewitnesses of crimes.
Neighborhood. In coordination with the City’s Neighborhood Empowerment
CRIME ANALYSIS
Office, the RHPD Community Services Unit hosts crime prevention activities and provides community. The Substation is the location for monthly neighborhood meetings, as well as periodic events such as National Night Out. 116
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Rock Hill's Crime Analysts track crime patterns and trends in the City and respond to requests for crime data from the citizens and media. The Department utilizes the COMPSTAT strategy, a bi-weekly, data-driven, and
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.11 POLICE FACILITIES AND PATROL ZONES Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Zone 1
Fargo Street Substation
Zone 2
Hagins Street Substation
Police Facilities
Zone 3
Law Center
Zone 4 Zone 5 Zone 6 Zone 7 Zone 8 Zone 9
Training Annex
Zone 10 Planning Area 3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
117
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
task-oriented meeting that addresses crime by type and location. Discussions
FIGURE 6.5 CRIME STATISTICS Source: City of Rock Hill Police Department
involve the type of crimes being committed, how to solve the crimes that have
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
Homicide
5
3
4
8
3
Forcible Sex Crimes
90
134
139
107
110
Robbery
80
71
66
104
73
Aggravated Assault
232
249
295
288
222
Total Violent Crime
407
457
504
507
408
Individual offenses for the majority of crimes have fluctuated year to year from
6.0
6.6
7.2
7.2
5.5
2014 to 2018. The number of violent crimes from 2014 to 2018, increased but
Arson
15
9
10
4
13
Burglary
427
395
353
398
366
Larceny
2,137
2,205
2,200
2,718
2,491
per 1,000
Auto Theft
88
132
167
160
225
Total Property Crime
2,667
2,741
2,730
3,280
3,095
per 1,000
39.1
39.6
38.9
46.4
41.7
then decreased again while the number of property crimes rose and decreased there was a 16% increase, Figure 6.5. The number of auto thefts has risen every year. Crime rate, the number of Index Crimes (based on official FBI’s Uniform Crime Report numbers) divided by the population, may be a better indicator of crime
for violent crimes decreased from 6.0 in 2014 to 5.5 in 2018. Property crimes
3500
rose over the same time period from 39.1 to 41.7. Rock Hill’s violent crime and property crime rates are higher than the National Average, but are comparable
3000
to other similar sized cities in the Southeast. The 2017 National Crime Rate per
2500
NO. OF CRIMES
CRIME RATES AND STATISTICS
Figure 6.5 was derived using this methodology and shows that the crime rate
4000
1,000 population totaled 3.8 for violent crimes and 23.6 for property crimes. The 2017 Crime Rate per 1,000 population for cities with 50,000 to 99,999
2000
population totaled 3.5 for violent crimes and 25.3 for property crimes (source:
1500
Federal Bureau of Investigation, Crime in the United States, 2017).
1000
RESPONSE TIMES
500
One measure of police efficiency and safety of residents is the response time to life threatening, or Priority One, calls. Response time in law enforcement
0
2014 118
re-occurring.
and safety than changes in the actual number of reported crimes each year.
Violent Crimes
Property Crimes
already occurred, and how to prevent further crimes of the same type from
2015
2016
2017
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
2018
includes both queuing time, the length of time from receipt of the request
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
for service to the actual dispatch of an officer, and travel time. The Police Department has a goal to respond to 70 percent of Priority One calls within 5 minutes and is exceeding this goal - meeting 90 percent of Priority One calls within 4.7 minutes. COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES The Rock Hill Police Department provides a variety of Crime Prevention Programs ranging from safety/crime prevention talks, site assessments, community visits and tours of the police department. In order to promote neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships, officers participate in National Night Out, Cool Table Lunch Buddies, Safety Patrol as well as operating the Worthy Boys and Girls Camp—a week long summer camp for boys and girls ages 9-12, providing the opportunity to experience the outdoors, learn new skills, develop new interpersonal skills and build self-esteem. The department participates in other community events such as Coffee with a Cop, Plentiful Harvest kitchen, Neighborhood Meetings, and events specifically designed to build relationships with children such as Nerf Wars, RHPD Got Game, Chess Club and Angler’s Club. The Rock Hill Police Department continues to foster a community that is a safe and desirable place to live and maintains a proactive approach to working
POLICE [FAST FACTS] 156 sworn officers
closely with residents, community groups and youth to address problems and
49 civilian personnel
concerns.
10 patrol zones 90% Priority One Calls in 4.7 minutes Worthy Boys & Girls Camp Community Crime Map VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
119
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
FIRE PROTECTION The Rock Hill Fire Department (RHFD) is made up of three divisions –
is also responsible for fire code enforcement and fire investigations to
Administration, Suppression, and Fire Prevention/Inspections. The RHFD
determine the cause of various fires including those of suspicious, incendiary,
provides services to the City of Rock Hill and certain water district customers
or undetermined nature, and all fires involving loss of life or large dollar losses.
located in areas outside the City limits. The City also provides supplemental service to some areas served by County Fire Departments. Areas outside of the City limits, but within the Planning Area, are served by County Fire Departments.
EQUIPMENT AND RESPONSE The six fire stations support eight Engine Apparatus, three Aerial Apparatus, one Tanker, one Grass Unit, two Battalion Chief Command Vehicles, and 15 administration support vehicles. The Department operates a fire mobile
FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS
package to enhance real time access to information and communication to
The RHFD operates six fire stations, as well as the headquarters station which
firefighters in the field. All fire apparatus are also equipped with diagnostic
houses administration, logistics, training, and the new children’s museum. The
heart monitors and several apparatus are equipped with thermal imaging
City has completed the Fire Training Center, consisting of Administration
cameras for search and rescue.
Building, 4 Story Training Tower, and 2 Story Burn Building. The Fire Training Center houses the department’s Training Division. The RHFD is also working
The key benchmark for fire department response time is set by the National
to identify land for one new fire stations, with plans to begin construction on
Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The NFPA’s response time standard is
the station within the next five years. Map 6.12 depicts the location of the
five minutes. The Rock Hill Fire Department’s average response time is above
existing fire stations and their service areas.
90 percent of the NFPA Standard Response Time. Figure 6.6 summarizes the Rock Hill Fire Department calls for service from 2015-19. Calls for fire have
The City of Rock Hill is the only fully-paid career fire department in York County. As of September 2019, the RHFD is staffed with 126 Fire Suppression personnel and 13 Administrative personnel, consisting of Command Staff, Training Division, Fire Prevention, and Investigation Division, and Logistics Division. Specialized services are provided for fire suppression, trench rescue, emergency medical services, confined space, vehicle extrication, high angle rescue, low angle rescue, water rescue, and hazardous materials/weapons of mass destruction (WMD). Fire prevention is implemented through educational programs on fire safety and involvement with community groups. The RHFD 120
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
remained relatively steady. Medical calls fluctuate from year to year. ISO RATING The National Insurance Services Office, Inc. (ISO) supplies statistical, actuarial, underwriting, and claims data to the property and casualty insurance industry. The ISO uses a uniform set of
criteria known as the Fire Suppression
Rating Schedule (FSRS) to review and evaluate the fire- fighting capabilities of individual communities. The FSRS has three main parts and is based on nationally recognized standards developed by the National Fire Protection
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.12 FIRE STATIONS AND SERVICE AREAS Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Headquarters Rock Hill Stations Volunteer Stations Station 1 Station 2 Station 3 Station 4 Station 5 Station 6 Planning Area Boundary 3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
121
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Association and the American Water Works Association. Ten percent of the overall grading is based on how well the fire department receives
FIRE [FAST FACTS]
fire alarms and dispatches its fire-fighting resources. Fifty percent of the
126 fire suppression personnel
overall score is based on the fire department, including equipment, training,
13 administrative staff
and personnel. Forty percent of the grading is based on the community’s
90%+ NFPA Response Time (5 minutes)
water supply, including whether a community has sufficient water supply
ISO rating #1
for fire suppression beyond daily maximum consumption, the condition of all components of the water supply system, and the distribution of hydrants. Once evaluated, a community is then assigned a Public Protection Classification (PPC™) from 1 to 10. Class 1 represents superior property fire
FIGURE 6.6 FIRE SERVICE CALL DATA
protection, and Class 10 indicates that the area’s fire-suppression program
Source: City of Rock Hill Fire Department
Medical calls
False alarms
does not meet ISO minimum criteria. Insurance companies base property
Other calls
Fire calls
premiums on a community’s ISO rating; ISO ratings of 1-3 receive the lower the insurance premium. The City currently has an ISO rating of 1.
9000
IMPACT FEES
8000
The City began implementing a fire impact fee in FY04 based on development
NO. OF SERVICE CALLS
7000
type. About $3.99 million has been collected since the fees were initiated. Revenues collected from the program are used to help fund construction of
6000
new fire stations.
5000
COMMUNITY SERVICE
4000
The RHFD is involved in many types of community service including
3000
offering free blood pressure checks as well as free installation and battery replacements of smoke detectors for elderly citizens and low income
2000
households. Fire prevention performs safety inspections and assists with 1000
preparing emergency evacuation plans. The department also offers an inschool mentoring program for all public/private schools in Rock Hill. Finally,
0
2014 - 2015 122
2015 - 2016
2016 - 2017
2017 - 2018
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
2018 - 2019
staff serves as instructors at Camp Can Do (a burned camp for children).
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
HOMETOWN SECURITY
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & MANAGEMENT
Hometown Security develops and implements security, emergency and
The York County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) oversees
disaster plans, and related programs to deter threats and enhance response
emergency and disaster operations planning, disaster consequence reduction
and recovery operations during and after emergencies and disasters.
programs, coordination of emergency response, rescue/EMS system, and
FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS Hometown Security provides daily support to all departments with questions
hazardous materials, Catawba Nuclear Station emergency planning, SARA Title III regulation and reporting (requirements for planning around hazardous chemicals), and emergency public education.
and direction on appropriate security protocols and conducts periodic inspections of City facilities and departments. The Division also conducts
FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS
periodic workshops for the community, government, and business leaders on
York County maintains an Emergency Operation and Public Safety
emergency related issues and works with the American Red Cross to develop
Communications Center at 149 West Black Street. The Center is maintained
guidelines for future emergency awareness training classes.
24-hours a day and has a direct link with the City of Rock Hill Emergency Response Center. The Communications Center utilizes an enhanced 911 system
The City adopted its first Hometown Security Plan in 2003. The plan establishes
for all fire and EMS-related emergencies and transferring law enforcement calls
protocols for minimizing the effects of disasters. The City also has a Continuity
to the agency that has jurisdiction. During 2017, the Communications Center
of Operations Plan (COOP) that is focused on long term recovery and details
answered 417,741 calls and dispatched 287,244 calls for service; this is an
the key activities that each Department must continue to function during and
increase of 31% and 131% over the number of 2013 calls respectively.
after a disaster. The City also has Emergency Response Plans in place for major City facilities including the WFP, the WWTP, and the Airport.
The York County Emergency Operations and Public Safety Communications Center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to assist in information
The City has an Emergency Response Center (ERC) at City Hall and at
gathering, assessment, and public notification. Sirens across the County are
the Operations Center. The City also implemented a single radio system
activated for a total of 3 minutes and emergency information is broadcast
network which provides a single channel of communication for emergency
on local television and radio stations. In the event of a major incident at the
responders. Rock Hill has signed a Statewide Mutual Aid Agreement to assist
Catawba Nuclear Station, Duke Energy would immediately notify federal, state
other municipalities in the event of a disaster and ensure that the City obtains
and local authorities of a problem at the station. York County coordinates
assistance as well.
communication between the Catawba Nuclear Station and the South Carolina State Warning Point on any emergency that would affect the County and activates the emergency outdoor warning sirens, as necessary. VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
123
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
OTHER FACILITIES & OPERATIONS AIRPORT
The Rock Hill/York County Airport (UZA), located at 550 Airport Road,
The apron area is approximately 45,600 square yards and contains about 69
is one of the South Carolina’s fourteen Corporate/Business (category SCII)
tie-down/parking positions.
airports. Rock Hill/York County Airport is located four miles northwest of downtown and less than 30 minutes from Charlotte-Douglas International
Operations include general aviation local aircraft operations, general aviation
Airport. Because of its location, the airport plays an essential role in serving as
itinerant operations, and a small number of military operations. Ground
a designated reliever to Charlotte-Douglas International Airport and providing
transportation includes rental car agencies and taxi service. The airport also
access and capacity to general aviation and business in the Rock Hill/York
offers flight training, ground schools, aircraft rental, and sightseeing flights.
County Area. Aviation related services at the airport are provided by a private contractor, The Airport is owned by the City of Rock Hill. Although the City is the
SkyTech (FBO), which leases the facilities on the west side of the airport from
official sponsor, the City and County split local funding costs (5 percent total).
the City. The City has an agreement with Skytech through 2030. Skytech offers
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and state provide the remaining
aircraft maintenance, full avionics repair and installations, fuel and oil service,
funding, 90 percent provided by FAA. The Airport Commission, comprised
sales as well as hangar and tie-down rentals.
of seven members appointed by the City and County Councils, is responsible for making recommendations to the City Council on policies, operations, and
The Airport works with local residents, realtors, and pilots to raise awareness
general activities regarding the airport.
about aircraft noise through the Flying Friendly Initiative. A Resident's Guide to Aircraft Noise and a Pilot's Guide to Noise Abatement were developed to
Facilities and Operations
support this Initiative as well as a 24-hour airport hotline to help identify a
Aircraft operations are estimated at about 33,000 for 2019. The airport is
typical noise events or concerns.
about 491 acres and includes a 7,200 square-foot terminal building designed for the business user, a conference room for business use, a pilot lounge, Wi-
Airport Overlay District
Fi services, and flight planning facilities. Currently, 149 aircraft are based at
In October 2008, the City and County jointly adopted an Airport Overlay
the airport, including 132 single-engine planes, 12 multi-engine planes, three
District to discourage the siting of incompatible land uses that may impair the
jets and two helicopters. There are a total of 122 hangars located at the
future development and operation of the airport, protect navigable airspace
airport, some of which are privately owned. The airport contains one grooved
from obstructions, and reduce hazards that may endanger the lives and
pavement runway (2/20) measuring 5,500 x 100 feet with a full parallel taxiway.
property of the public and aviation users.
124
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Airport Plans & Economic Impact Report
Funding and Improvements
The Rock Hill-York County Airport Master Plan, adopted in 2003, guides
The FAA provides $150,000 in entitlement funds to the airport annually. The
future airport development for a 20-year horizon. The Rock Hill-York County
FAA determines any additional discretionary funds after weighing the needs of
Airport Layout Plan, is an update to the Master Plan and similarly this plan has
all other airports within the region under the Federal Aviation Administration
a 20-year horizon to 2035 with a three phased development plan. The runway
Atlanta Airports District Office. The Airport Director submits an updated
and taxiway extension is the primary facility improvement planned for Phase I.
capital improvement program (CIP) to the FAA annually for consideration. Most of the projects included in the current five-year CIP are related to the
Airports are an integral component to South Carolina’s transportation
extension of the existing runway; however, operations numbers were too low
infrastructure and economy. The South Carolina Aeronautics Commission
for FAA to support funding of a runway extension. The CIP reflects other
(SCAC) completed updates to its Statewide Aviation System Plan and Economic
needed improvements that will increase operations including expansion of the
Impact Study. A Summary is available of the Study's findings, including those
parking apron, taxiway rehabilitation (construction), and drainage work on the
highlighting the contribution that Rock Hill-York County makes to the
north end of the apron.
estimated statewide economic impact.
UZA [FAST FACTS]
90+/- aircraft operations per day 149 based aircraft 122 hangars 2/20 grooved-asphalt runway 5,500 x 100 ft 69 tie-down parking positions $1.6 M annual state & local tax revenues
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
125
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.13 AIRPORT FACILITIES & FUTURE RUNWAY EXPANSION Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Compatibility & Influence Zones City Limits Planning Area Boundary
2 Miles
126
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
PUBLIC TRANSIT There are several public transportation services for residents in
MyRide [FAST FACTS]
FREE
the City of Rock Hill and the planning area.
4,100 riders / week within first 8 weeks of operation 4 routes 7 buses 88 Bus Stops
YORK COUNTY ACCESS York County Access provides public transportation for residents of the County and the City of Rock Hill and is operated by the York County Council on Aging. Two types of service are offered including: Essential Service and Ride-to-Work Service. The Essential Service is county-wide for people who need a ride
FIGURE 6.7 MyRide WEEKLY RIDERSHIP
to the doctor, pharmacy, grocery, or medical facilities. Ride-to-
Source: City of Rock Hill Transit Department
Saluda / Heckle Loop Dave Lyle Galleria Loop Cherry Riverwalk Loop Downtown Knowledge Park Loop
Target Ridership, all routes
within city limits.
Actual Ridership, all routes
MyRide The City of Rock Hill kicked off a new, free, fixed-route bus
4,500
system with full service on July 1, 2019. The MyRide fleet is
4,000
comprised of all-electric buses that were assembled in Greenville, Specifically, the fleet includes seven, 35-foot Proterra
Catalyst® buses. The buses are outfitted with free-wi, mobile charging ports, infotainment screens and bike racks. Buses are ADA compliant, with features such as wheelchair ramps, automatic voice annunciation system, destination and route signs,
3,892
3,500 TOTAL NUMBER RIDERS
SC.
1800
Target, 4,100
3,679
3,000
1600
4,099 3,613
3,702
3,767
3,760
3,907
2,362
1400 1200
3,043
2,500 2,000
4,011
1000
2,479
800
2,034
1,500
600
1,000
400
Free fares were made possible by funding from Winthrop
500
200
University, Piedmont Medical Center, Family Trust Federal Credit
0
and priority seating with wheelchair securement system.
NUMBER RIDERS ON EACH ROUTE
Work is offered to Rock Hill citizens who need a ride to work
0
Union, the City and grant funding. VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
127
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
PARK & RECREATION
FIGURE 6.8 PARKS & RECREATION CENTERS
The City of Rock Hill has a Parks, Recreation, and Tourism (PRT) Department
ID
that provides leisure, recreational, tourism, and cultural opportunities and
1 2 3 4 5
facilities to Rock Hill residents and visitors.
Facilities and Operations In addition to the parks and recreation centers owned and operated by PRT , Figure 6.6 and Map 6.14, the City has also executed joint use agreements for the Terry Complex at Winthrop University, 22 separate Rock Hill District Three school facilities, and the Rock Hill Tennis Center. PRT assists with maintaining the grounds at eight of the school facilities, noted on Figure 6.8and Map 6.14. PRT also maintains the City's major gateways and corresponding streetscapes as noted in the Transportation element maps. Every year PRT produces a Facilities Report that summarizes the improvements that were made over the past year and documents needed park improvements and their associated costs. PRT has an established process for recommending capital project priorities via the nine-member Public Parks and Recreation Commission who recommend needed capital projects to City Council for consideration. Directions is the PRT strategic plan that guides PRT planning, improvements, and uses.
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
128
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
NAME Boyd Hill Center Emmett Scott Center Fewell Park & Center Northside Center Rock Hill Sports & Event Center Arcade Park Arcade-Victoria Park Armory Park Carroll Park Cedar Crest Park Cherry Park College Downs Park Confederate Park East Moore Street Park Fountain Park Friedhiem Park Glencairn Gardens Hargett Park Highland Park Huckle Grove Park Lige Street Park Manchester Meadows Marion Street Park Oakwood Acres Park Peoples Park River Park Rock Hill Outdoor Center at Riverwalk Rock Hill Tennis Center Southland Park Spencer Park Miracle Park Workman Street Park
SIZE (acres) 21 11 11 8 2.1 20 6 4 11 0.6 67 4 11 0.7 1.7 4 12 21 3 1.4 3 67 0.2 10 0.1 57 56+ 3.25 7 9 17 3
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.14 PARK & RECREATION FACILITIES
PRT [FAST FACTS]
Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
800+ acres 31 parks 5 recreation centers 33 miles of ped & bike routes
27 24 18 28
3
7 16 2 9
17 5 10 20 25 15
13
8
19
14
23
4 30 32
21 12
22
31
1
6
26
11
Park & Recreation Centers Trails & Shared Use Paths Existing Funded
29
Proposed Planning Area Boundary 2 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
129
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
EDUCATION Rock Hill has a variety of educational facilities including public schools, charter schools, private schools, a public two-year college, a private-two year college,
RHSD #3 PLANS & STUDIES
and a four-year university. Map 6.15 shows the location of all of these schools in
Click on the Plan/Study name to learn more.
the Planning Area. ROCK HILL DISTRICT THREE SCHOOLS
District Strategic Plan 2014-2019
Every five years the Rock Hill School District updates their strategic plan designed to guide the efforts of the District, affirm District beliefs, as well as set priorities and directions. The current strategic plan, 2014-2019 Strategic Plan, was adopted in January 2014 and has four focus areas: shared vision and beliefs, future focus, a nurturing environment, and quality work design and delivery.
The Master Plan for Rock Hill Schools 2020-2030 [DRAFT]
The RHSD #3 Master Plan for 2020-2030 is currently in draft format. The Plan looks at emerging trends and drivers and includes a condition assessment and capacity analysis. The conditions assessment is used to develop a five-year plan for capital needs; the first year’s list of capital projects becomes the District’s capital improvement program.
Rock Hill and nearly all of the unincorporated portions within the Planning Area are served by Rock Hill School District Three. Rock Hill School District Three is the largest of four school districts in York County and is the eleventh-largest school district in South Carolina. The District includes 32 schools on 28 campuses totaling over 3.5 million square feet on over 1,200 acres of land.
Facilities and Operations Nearly 18,000 students were enrolled in Rock Hill’s public school system during the 2018-2019 school year. The Rock Hill Schools system consists of one preschool, 18 Elementary Schools (including a state-funded Montessori school), five middle schools, three high schools, and one career/technology center, Map 6.15.
RHSD3 Population & Enrollment Forecasts, 201920 Through 2028-29 [by McKibben Demographics] This study analyzes how much growth the District will likely experience and where that growth is anticipated to occur.
RHSD3 Utilization Analysis [by Cropper GIS & McKibben Demographics]
This analysis reviews current capacity and utilization. It builds on the Population & Enrollment Forecast to forecast.
Some of these schools are designated as Choice Schools that offer special programs for students, noted in Figure 6.9. Parents apply for their children to attend a Choice School and an online lottery is used to grant approval. While the number of students attending a Choice School is constantly fluctuating, close to 900 students attend a Choice School. Rock Hill Schools also offers other unique resources to the community including a Central Child Development Center, a Flexible Learning Center, the Carroll School Education Museum, and the Sylvia Circle Family Learning Center.
130
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
The overall capacity of the District is around 23,000 students and there are
York Preparatory Academy
slightly under 18,000 currently enrolled. Ultimately each school’s enrollment
York Preparatory Academy is a National Blue Ribbon award winning, free
is based on a compromise among competing objectives and factors including
public charter school that helps students attain the knowledge, skills, character
area population density, existing school sizes, natural geographic barriers, road
and determination necessary to excel in their chosen post-secondary pursuits
patterns, transportation times and distances, curriculum choice and student
and life. Over1,650 students from York, Lancaster, and Chester counties
achievement objectives, student and staff safety, effective and efficient use of
attend school daily at York Prep's 43-acre campus.
fiscal resources, and local preferences. While district enrollment is anticipated to increase, it is forecasted to grow by less than one tenth of the annual
Riverwalk Academy
growth rate experienced prior to the recession of 2008 per the Forecast
Riverwalk Academy is a free public charter school that provides education
by McKibbon. The PATHFINDERS Master Planning Team is skeptical of this
to students in K-6 grade. The school opened its doors in FY15 and had 300
forecast considering a number of 'wild card' factors that could lead to greater
students enrolled. The school will serve 1,200 students when it reaches full
growth. The planning process for finalizing the current draft of the Master
build out of its Mount Gallant Road facility where it will add a grade level each
Plan will weigh alternatives to rebuild versus renovate existing schools as well
year until it is a K-12 school.
as obtaining goals that ensure adaptable spaces, safer places, and innovative technology infrastructure. Rock Hill School District Three is one of 46 school districts across the nation involved in the Digital Promise League of Innovative Schools. The League is a coalition that works together to improve outcomes for students and solve challenges through learning technology and education research.
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Providence Classical School Accredited by the Classical Latin School Association, PCS is a Christian, K-12 school and receives support from the Highlands Latin School. The 2018-2019 academic year included 116 students enrolled at Providence and 30 students enrolled at the Upper School (grades 7+).
CHARTER SCHOOLS
Saint Anne Catholic School
Legion Collegiate Academy
SAS is a private/Parochial preschool through high school (K3-12) serving Fort
Legion opened its doors to high school students for the academic year in
Mill, Rock Hill and surrounding areas in Christ-Centered, Catholic/Christian
September 2019 in a temporary location at 505 University Drive, Trinity Bible
Education since 1951. The Lower School is located in Rock Hill and the Upper
Church classroom. The permanent 83-acre site is anticipated to be ready in
School is located in Fort Mill. SAS is accredited Southern Association of
the Spring of 2020 near the corner of Mount Holly and Long Meadow Roads.
Colleges and Schools (NCEA). Approximately 360 students were enrolled at
The school at full capacity will have 600 students in grades 9-12.
SAS during the 2018/2019 school year. VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
131
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Westminster Catawba Christian School WCCS is the largest private school in Rock Hill and is accredited by
ID
Association of Christian Schools International and by AdvancED. The
6 7 8
school capacity is 605 students and the 2018/2019 student enrollment was about 550 children. WCCS provides Christian and traditional education for children in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. The Westminster Campus (3K- 5th) and Catawba Campus (6th-12th) are situated within two miles of one another on India Hook Road. The school’s long range plan includes exploring the possibility of combining the campuses.
FIGURE 6.9 EDUCATION FACILITIES * Facilities having a Joint Use Agreement with PRT ** Facilities with a Joint Use Agreement & PRT assists with maintenance # Indicates a facility that offers a Choice School program
ID 1 2 3 4 5
NAME Belleview ES** Cherry Park ES# Sylvia Circle Family Learning Center ES* # Ebenezer ES* # Ebinport ES*
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35
132
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
NAME Finley Road ES* Independence ES India Hook ES Lesslie ES* Mount Gallant ES Mount Holly ES Northside ES* # Oakdale ES* # Old Pointe ES* Richmond Drive ES* Rosewood ES* # Sunset Park ES* # York Road ES* Castle Heights MS** Dutchman Creek MS** Rawlinson Road MS** Saluda Trail MS** # Sullivan MS** # Northwestern HS* Rock Hill HS* South Pointe HS* # Legion Collegiate Academy (Charter School) Riverwalk Academy (Charter School) York Preparatory Academy (Charter School) Providence Classical School of RH (Private School) Saint Anne Catholic School (Private School) Westminster Catawba Christian School (Private School) York Technical College Clinton College Winthrop University
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.15 EDUCATION FACILITIES Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
10 20
28
8
32 16 14
5 27
21 24 18 29
23
15
2
35 3 4
6 17 34
31 33
12
30
1 25 19
26
22
7 9
13 27
11 RHSD #3 Boundary Planning Area Boundary City Limits 3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
133
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
YORK TECHNICAL COLLEGE York Technical College (YTC) is a public, two-year college that offers associate
Facilities and Operations
degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Over 7,200 students are enrolled annually
The campus consists of 11 buildings on a 24-acre site. Looking to break ground
in 76 credit programs. YTC also provides continuing education opportunities
in the next two years, the College's master facilities plan includes a student
for about 9,000 residents and numerous businesses.
housing facility, the Beacon Complex for administration and academics, a performing arts/multi-purpose auditorium and a health and wellness center/
Facilities and Operations The main campus is 124 acres in size with 15 buildings while off campus facilities
gymnasium.
include 59.2 acres and 8 buildings. YTC is a commuter college, so it does not
WINTHROP UNIVERSITY
offer student housing. YTC's budget is $38.9 million and is estimated to have
Winthrop University was founded in 1886 in Columbia, South Carolina and
an economic impact of $192 million. YTC opened a new campus in Indian Land
moved to Rock Hill in 1895. The University currently offers a total of 42
in the fall of 2014 to serve those in the northern parts of Lancaster and York
undergraduate and 22 graduate programs and certificates, with more than 100
counties.
programs of study offered through the 5 colleges and various concentrations including online programs. Approximately 5,813 students are enrolled in the
CLINTON COLLEGE
school.
Founded in 1894 by the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, Clinton College is a private, two-year institution that was established during
Facilities and Operations
reconstruction years to help eradicate illiteracy among freedmen. Clinton
Facilities for Winthrop University are located at both the 125-acre Main
College is the oldest institution of higher education in Rock Hill, operating
Campus on Oakland Avenue and at “Winthrop Farm”, a 360-acre site
continuously for 120 years. There are about 200 students enrolled at the
located on Cherry Road. The Main Campus is situated in a historic district
College during the FY19 school year. The College offers degree programs in
near downtown Rock Hill and houses the academic buildings, administrative
Business, Liberal Arts, Religious Studies, Early Childhood/Elementary Education,
offices, dormitories, library, and a student center. The Winthrop Farm Lake
and Natural Sciences. They also offer computer courses to Senior Citizens,
Area Athletic, Recreation & Research Area, the University’s recreational and
for which there is a waiting list to attend. Clinton College is designated as
research complex, features recreational amenities including: a tennis complex,
a Church related, Historically Black Institution of higher learning. As such,
ballpark, the Winthrop Coliseum, a golf course, a ropes course, soccer
it is eligible for several federal grants. The College has received or currently
facilities, an outdoor track, a recreational sports field, and softball complex.
receives Department of Education grants (including Title 3), US Department of
The complex houses a 1.1 acre wetland project created in partnership with
Energy (DOE) grants, and grants from the state of South Carolina.
Rock Hill Schools.
134
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
LIBRARIES The York County Library System consists of a main library, headquartered in
ROCK HILL READS
downtown Rock Hill, and branches in Clover, Fort Mill, Lake Wylie, and York.
a community initiative focused on serving families with children,
The library system also provides a Bookmobile which visits nursing homes,
birth to age 8, in two census tract areas of Rock Hill (604.01 and
daycares, and other locations throughout the York County community.
603) to increase early literacy - Learn more here.
The State of South Carolina mandates that counties provide library services, but does not provide full funding for the services. The library, whose FY19 budget was $6.54 million, is funded through a combination of sources: state,
With advances in technology and the ease of data access, the role of the
county, donations, and library fines and fees. The library system has over 1.2
community library has changed. It has become a 'third' place for people to
million materials in circulation as well as numerous electronic resources. The
gather and thus the demands for having flex space at libraries has risen. Despite
York County Library system has the best library programs across the State;
this trend and the population growth of the County, there has been no new
these programs and services are for residents of all ages. All York County
library for over 17 years. More specifically, the County has been working to
Library locations have a meeting room for use free of charge by non-profit
identify a new space for the Rock Hill library for many years. Despite several
organizations or community groups. The main library in Rock Hill features
County attempts, studies, and joint efforts with potential partners, no site has
a Technology Center that provides users with public access to 25 computer
been committed to this function. The County continues to explore partnership
workstations for internet access, software for adults and children, online
opportunities with synergistic organizations like Winthrop University and a
research databases, and free computer classes. The library is home to the
joint library in Knowledge Park. Regardless of the location, construction of
Nan Weller Carson Local History Room, which contains a collection of local
a new facility will likely require a partnership between the County, the City,
history resources about York County and the Catawba Indians.
and private sector. In addition to a new headquarters, there is also a need for additional library branches in Rock Hill and other areas of the County.
Friends of the York County Library is a non-profit organization that supports
Library services have not kept pace with growth and the County is behind
the York County Library system. Through membership dues, book sales, and
when comparing number of libraries, number of library staff, and library budget
special fund-raising activities, Friends of the York County Library secures funding
to areas of comparable size.
for non-budgeted library projects and programs. The group also partners with other agencies to sponsor various library events including children’s programs and summer reading programs.
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
135
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
HEALTHCARE
PMC conducts an annual community needs assessment to determine the need
Piedmont Medical Center (PMC), located at 222 South Herlong Avenue in
for additional physician manpower by specialty and guide facility improvements
Rock Hill, is the largest healthcare provider in York County. It offers a broad
and equipment investments over the coming year. The State of South Carolina
range of services, including open heart surgery, specialized women’s services,
also updates the State Health Plan every two years which details where new
neurosurgery, and orthopaedics.
facilities are needed.
FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS
Piedmont Medical Center is proud to serve York County residents by providing
PMC is anchored by a 288-bed acute care hospital. The facility is over 520,000
unique benefits including EMS services, capital improvements, community
square feet in size. Additional PMC facilities are located throughout York
scholarships and a commitment to keep costs for care competitive with other
County and include off-site outpatient services, diagnostic imaging, pain
hospitals in the area.
center, physician practices, urgent care centers and a new off-site Emergency Department in Fort Mill, SC.
PMC provides financial support to over 30 organizations in York County, primarily organizations focused on health, youth, and people with special
As of November 2019, PMC has over 400 physicians on staff, approximately
needs. In addition to financial support, PMC also provides in-kind services to
1,600 employees on their payroll, and over 150 volunteers. The number of
local agencies and free flu shots to those who volunteer at these agencies as
volunteers swells substantially in the summer through the hospital’s teen
well as their clients. Many PMC employees also volunteer in the community
volunteer program. PMC offers some of the most advanced medical technologies
and serve in leadership roles on various committees and boards.
and services. Piedmont’s primary service lines include cardiovascular services (open heart, interventional cardiology, and electrophysiology), general
PMC was awarded a certificate of need to build a new hospital in Fort Mill
and vascular surgery, cancer services, orthopedics, women’s services and
in 2019. This new medical center will include 100-beds, state-of-the art
emergency medicine. Some of the other services PMC offers are robotic
technology, 24-hour emergency room services, comprehensive women’s
surgery, 3-D mammography, CT scanning, imaging and diagnostics, outpatient
health services (including labor and delivery units), advanced cardiac services,
services, hyperbarics and wound care. It is also one of 17 nationally accredited
and an intensive care unit, in addition to many other specialized services.
Level III trauma centers in the State. During the 2018 calendar year, there were 14,814 patients admitted to the hospital, up from 14,004 during the prior year, and 64,922 emergency room visits, up from 64,591 from the prior year. The EMS system also responded to 18,836 emergency medical service calls.
136
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
MAP 6.16 HEALTH CARE FACILITIES Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
PMC Hospital EMS Station Planning Area Boundary City Limits
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
137
COMMUNITY FACILITIES
GENERAL GOVERNMENT FACILITIES
for $89 million. The top priority projects include additions and renovations
CITY FACILITIES
of the Moss Justice Center, a new Family Court facility, renovations of the
Many of the City’s government facilities are located in downtown Rock Hill,
Heckle Boulevard Complex, additions and renovations for the Public Works
including City Hall, the Housing and Neighborhood Services building, the Law
Complex, and construction of a new Government Center.
Center, and Municipal Court. The following City Departments are housed at these locations: Planning & Development, Parks, Recreation & Tourism,
STATE AND FEDERAL FACILITIES
Economic and Urban Development, Housing and Neighborhood Services,
Several state offices are located throughout the County. In downtown York,
Finance, Hometown Security, and Human Resources. The majority of remaining
state offices include the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control
City Departments (Utilities, Public Works, and Information Technology) are
(DHEC), and the SC Department of Social Services (DSS). The Moss Center
housed in the City’s Operations Center located at 757 South Anderson Road.
includes offices for South Carolina Probation and Parole. Also, offices for the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, South Carolina Probation
COUNTY FACILITIES
and Parole, South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice, South Carolina
York County government currently has offices established in more than 30
Vocational Rehabilitation Department, SC DHEC and SC DSS are located in
buildings throughout the County; however, five primary concentrations of
the County’s Heckle Boulevard Complex. SC Department of Transportation
buildings serve as the primary focus of county government services. These are
(DOT) District 4 offices for construction and maintenance of roadways are
listed here and details for each facility can be found at the County's website
located on Camden Avenue and Robertson Road in Rock Hill. The South
here -
Carolina Employment Security Commission is located on Fincher Road in •
Government Center Building in Downtown York
•
Moss Justice Center and York County Prison
•
Public Works Complex
Known federal offices in the Rock Hill 2020 Planning Area include U.S. Post
•
Cherry Road Offices (Family Court facility)
Offices, the offices of federal legislators, the Social Security Administration,
•
Heckle Boulevard Complex
and military recruiting offices.
•
Emergency Operations Center
After conducting a comprehensive assessment in 2014, the County developed a Facility Master Plan that focuses on improving the efficiency of existing buildings and getting York County out of leased space. The capital facility projects were estimated at $115 million and a bond referendum was approved 138
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Rock Hill.
CULTURAL RESOURCES
CULTURAL RESOURCES The Cultural Resources element is intended to showcase the presence of
Property owners interested in local designation must apply for Historic Overlay
institutions, religious facilities, historic districts and buildings, and other
District or Historic Property designation on the Official Zone District Map.
assets that help create a community's identity. These resources help us learn
Applications are reviewed by the Board of Historic Review (BHR) submitted
about and remember the past, understand and celebrate different cultures,
to Planning Commission for recommendation of approval, and then to City
and appreciate art and architecture. Rock Hill contains both private- and
Council for approval. Following approval, property owners must obtain a
publicly-owned culturally significant facilities that provide substantial social
Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) or Certificate of Hardship (COH) from the
and economic benefits enhancing the livability of the community. Rock Hill's
BHR prior to undertaking exterior renovations (new construction, additions,
considerable awareness of its historical and cultural roots is made evident by its
or alterations) or demolition of these properties. This process is detailed here.
nomination as a 'Preserve America Community". Preserve America is a federal program meant to recognize and support community efforts to preserve the
The City has a Design Review Guideline Manual to guide the BHR when
country's heritage.
making its determination. Guidelines identify design and streetscape issues and recommend appropriate rehabilitation procedures and types of new
HISTORIC ASSETS
construction.
HISTORIC DISTRICTS & SITES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION ENTITIES
There are six historic districts and myriad of individual historic properties in
There are several federal, state, and local organizations that assist the City in
Rock Hill, Map 6.1 A, B, & C. All historic districts and individual properties
historic and cultural resource preservation.
are required to follow the City's historic preservation ordinance, with the
•
National Park Service
exemption of the Winthrop Historic District. This district is subject to design
•
South Carolina Department of Archives and History
standard regulations established by the State of South Carolina.
•
State Historic Preservation Office
•
York County Forever Commission
•
Culture & Heritage Commission
•
Board Of Historic Review (BHR)
•
Historic Rock Hill
REGULATIONS & GUIDELINES The City has regulations and guidelines in the Zoning Ordinance to help identify, recognize, preserve, maintain, protect and enhance old, historic and architecturally valuable structures, properties, districts and/or neighborhoods in Rock Hill.
The City encourages historic property maintenance that is
consistent with the Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation.
To be eligible for historic designation, structures must be at least 50 years old and have significance in a local, state and national context or architectural period style. VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
141
CULTURAL RESOURCES
30 31 32 33
ROCK HILL HISTORIC SITES 1 2 1 3 34 45 6 5 7 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
142
Afro-American Insurance Building** Anderson-Gill House** Avery-Williams-Bishop House* Bleachery Water Treatment Plant** Dr. William W. Fennell House* Ebenezer Academy** Ebenezer-Manse House* First Presbyterian Church** Gilbert Lazenby House* Harper-Holler House* Hermon Presbyterian Church** Highland Park Manufacturing Plant and Cotton Oil Complex** Ketchin-Neely-Long/Longwood Hall* Laurelwood Cemetary** McCallum House* McCorkle-Fewell-Long House** McCosh House* Mt. Prospect Baptist Church** New Mt. Olivet AME Zion* People's National Bank** Richards House* Rock Hill Body Company** Rock Hill Cotton Factory** Shurley Mickle House* Smith-Matthews House* Springsteen Plantation Site* Stokes-Mayfield House** Tillman Hall** U.S. Post Office and Courthouse**
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
White Home** Williams Bynum Cotton Warehouse* Williams Gulf Station* Withers Building**
2
8
ROCK HILL HISTORIC DISTRICTS A
Charlotte Avenue/Aiken Avenue Historic District**
B
Marion Street Area Historic District**
C
Oakland Avenue Historic District*
D
Reid Street/North Confederate Avenue Area Historic District**
E
Rock Hill Downtown Historic District**
F
Winthrop Historic District**
B
77
A
C 77
* Recognized As Historic, But Not Officially Designated To Date * Local Designation ** National Designation ** Local/National Designation
CULTURAL RESOURCES
MAP 7.1 A, B, C ROCK-HILL HISTORIC DISTRICTS AND SITES Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
B
7 25 13
ZE RR
S
VE ST A
D
33
F
E AV
NE
VD N BL
UTIO
ER
T UM
6 EBE
STIT
CON
A
CRE
HILL
16
28
21 3
A VE TA
C
14
31
FE
23 29 N
ST
O
17
11
W
1
20
ILL
32
E
OW
BR OO
KA VE
45
30
C
6 8 D
19
RED
ILS
CO W
VE EA
AT
ER
ED NF
ST
10
15
R RO AD
MC
TE
ST
E
R HE
24
9
HI
LL WE
18
HERLONG AV
2 W
22
GE
ED
27
N
LO
E AV
RIVE
FA D
DE N
ST
34
N MO
G
FLI
NT
B WA LN
UT
ST
12
MA
IN
ST
26
ST
National Historic District
Local Historic District
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
143
CULTURAL RESOURCES
FIGURE 7.1 ROCK HILL HISTORIC RESOURCE SURVEYS*, 2004 & 1988 * Available in hardcopy format only from the Rock Hill Board of Historic Review
The Historic Resource Survey is a snapshot, documenting historic architectural resources in Rock Hill that are 50 years and older.
CULTURAL ASSETS The recognition and support of cultural assets in Rock Hill is critical to its development. These assets provide insight on pressing social and political issues that have shaped the City's environment and contribute to the community’s creativity, knowledge, traditions, culture, meaning, and vitality. While culture can be expressed in many art forms, the following categories are used here to provide a sense for the types and depth of those cultural assets Visual Arts Literary Arts Performing Arts
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PROGRAMS & INCENTIVES
Multidisciplinary Arts
There are several types of programs and incentives available to historic properties at the State, regional, and local levels. Click on links below to learn more.
Even though grade schools, parks and recreational facilities have
Federal Historic Preservation Grants
7.3. Reference Map 6.15 in the Community Facilities element for the
South Carolina Historic Rehabilitation Tax Incentives
education facilities and Map 6.14 in the same element for the parks and
South Carolina Historic Mark Program
recreational facilities. If there is a cultural asset located at a park, such
South Carolina Archaeology Resources
as an installment or sculpture, then the art is called out and the park
York County Preservation Tax Incentives
location is referenced. Fountain Park and the Old Town Amphitheater
City of Rock Hill Preservation Tax Incentives
are included in the Cultural District map due to the number, scale
Old Town Incentives [Old Town Facade Rehabilitation Grant Program]
of events and infrastructure specifically incorporated into the site to
various art programs and events, due to the number of these facilities, they are not included on the following Cultural Assets maps, 7.2 and
support events. The higher education facilities include libraries as well 144
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
as a gamut of art and cultural events. Thus, the title references literary arts and multidisciplinary arts. Note that the York County Library is the only facility of this type located in the Cultural District. The term Cultural Center is used here to describe places with collections, galleries, exhibits, programs, events and more.
EXPERIENCING IT - THE ARTS Cultural assets are experienced! While there are a number of host organizations found across the Planning Area, there is a concentration in the Rock Hill Cultural District. Map 7.2 illustrates the location of key sites within the Planning Area and Map 7.3 illustrates those within the Cultural District. When available, hyper-links provide access to further online details.
CULTURAL DISTRICT In 2015, the South Carolina Arts Commission named downtown Rock Hill as the first state-recognized cultural district in South Carolina. A cultural district is an area that is easily identifiable to visitors and residents and serves as a cultural and economic center for the community. Over time the City has detached itself from the notion of definitive boundaries for its cultural district but continues to support initiatives that promote cultural assets in the downtown area. Rock Hill's cultural downtown contains museums, art centers, unique and creative businesses, and much more, Map 7.3.
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
145
MULTICULTURALISM
THE IMPACT OF ART
the economic impact of non-profit art & culture organizations in York County
$27 MILLION INDUSTRY $2 MILLION IN REVENUE $32 AVERAGE DOLLARS spent 846 JOBS
[local & state]
per person attending an event [full-time equivalent]
Source: Arts & Economic Prosperity 5: The Economic Impact of Nonprofit Arts & Cultural Organizations and Their Audiences in York County, www.yorkcountyarts.org
Performing arts and events offer a dynamic component to experiencing
Rock Hill recognizes and promotes the contributions of the diverse cultural heritages and ancestries of its people. CATAWBA INDIAN RESERVATION A significant cultural aspects of Rock Hill is its long history with the Catawba Indian Nation, African American, and Hispanic Culture. The Catawba Cultural Preservation Project (CCPP) was formed in 1990 as a nonprofit organization within the Catawba Cultural Center located on the Catawba Indian Reservation. Its mission is to preserve, promote and protect the rich cultural heritage of the Catawba Indian Nation.
the arts and culture. Tables 7.1 provides some of the major organizations
AFRICAN-AMERICAN CULTURE
that conduct and/or sponsor performances and events. The City of Rock
There are several groups and organizations that support African-American
Hill has a deep tradition of sponsoring events and festivals such as the
heritage in Rock Hill. Two of these include the African-American Cultural
Old Town Amphitheatre Concert Series, Come See Me festival, Juneteenth and
Resources Advisory Committee and the Juneteenth Rock Hill Council. In 2015,
Christmasville to name just a few. Programming of such performances and
the African-American Cultural Resources Committee unveiled a monument at
events are constantly changing and events can occur at multiple locations,
the corner of Black Street and Dave Lyle Boulevard to pay tribute to the City’s
thus links to these organizations and sponsors are provided to reference
historic African-American Business District that was demolished in the early
current schedules.
1970s. The Juneteenth Rock Hill Council currently organizes events celebrating black history in Rock Hill.
TABLE 7.1 EXPERIENCE IT - EVENTS
HISPANIC CULTURE SPONSORS
Some of the biggest changes that the Hispanic population has brought to Rock
Events [festivals, parades, performances, programs & more]
Hill include the growing number of Latino-owned businesses, particularly first
Only in Old Town Visit Rock Hill SC Winthrop University Cultural Events
Old Town Association
time small business owners, offering specialty products and services. Also,
City of Rock Hill
many churches have begun adding services specifically for Spanish speaking
Arts Council of York County Events
Arts Council of York County
Visit York County, Rock Hill
York County Convention & Visitor's Bureau
146
Winthrop University
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
members. Grupo Latino de Rock Hill is a group of children, youth and adults from different nationalities and background who perform at special events in the area to preserve ethnic traditions of Latino song and dance.
CULTURAL RESOURCES
MAP 7.2
CULTURAL ASSETS IN THE PLANNING AREA
CULTURAL CENTERS
Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
1 2
Catawba Cultural Center Museum of York County (MYCO) PLACES OF LEARNING
3
[Winthrop University] Ida Jane Dacus Library Louise Pettus Archives Art Tour (by various artists) Sweet Dreams (by Doug McAbee) Cultural Events Theatre & Dance Hall Music Conservatory Galleries
2
10
4
9
Dalton Gallery Library
5
8
6
[York Technical College] Anne Springs Close Library Events
11 3
[Clinton College]
7
PUBLIC ART
5 6
4
7 1
8 9
[Glencairn Garden] Wall of Whimsey, Children at Play & Veterans Garden Civitas (by Audrey Flack) & Gateway Columns [Cherry Park] Mighty Casey [Celriver Legacy Project] Plaza PERFORMING ARTS
10 Rock Hill Community Theatre 11 York County Choral Society City Limits Planning Area Boundary 3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
147
CULTURAL RESOURCES
PERFORMING ARTS 22 Fountain Park
PLACES OF LEARNING 1
York County Library
23 Old Town Amphitheatre 24 Proposed Performing Arts & Education Center 25 York County Ballet
Technology Center Nan Weller Carson Local History Room
FAITH-BASED INSTITUTIONS 2
Hill City Church
3
Freedom Temple and Montessori School
4 5 6 7
PUBLIC ART Black Street Parking Garage
Episcopal Church of Our Savior
26 Historic Photo Wall 27 Historic Photo Wall & Fountain
First ARP Church
28 Arts Deco Wall (by Edmund Lewandowski)
Back side of Center for the Arts, Main Street
St. John's United Methodist Church
29 Street Sign 30 Street Sign
Hampton & Main Streets
31 Tilted Bike Frames Bike Rack
153 - 155 Main Street
32 Pottery Sculpture Bike Rack
Back side of Gettys Art Center
First Presbyterian Church
CULTURAL CENTERS 8 9 10 11
Caldwell & Main Streets
Center for the Arts
Arts Council of York County
Main Street Children's Museum
Multiple Sponsors
33 Orange Slice Bike Rack
Back side of 128 Main Street
Gettys Art Center
Multiple Sponsors
34 Train Pilot Bike Rack
City Hall, Hampton Street side
Comporium Telephone Company Museum
Comporium
12 Rock Hill Fire Education Museum 13 Historic White Home & Gardens 14 Old Cotton Factory 'Mini-Museum'
City of Rock Hill Historic Rock Hill William & Fudge
15 Rotunda Gallery 16 Alleys As Galleries
Cotton Alley & White Street Alley
36 Freedom Walkway Alley (aka Woolworth Walkway) Between 139 & 141 Bldgs Main Street Elk Avenue
38 African American Business District Monument
Black Street & Dave Lyle Blvd
39 Civitas (by Audrey Flack), Freedom Walkway Exhibit, &
City Hall Rotunda
40 Children Reading Sculpture
386 E Black Street, RHSD3
Rock Hill Evolution of a City Interactive Timeline
Non-Profit supporting local entrepreneurs Creative Marketing
19 Vin-Yet Architecture 20 Old Town Farmers Market
Design & architecture firm
21 Overhead Station
Retail for local arts & artists
Main Street (Wells Fargo & Center of the Arts Bldgs)
Monuments & Sculpture
City Hall
Technology Incubator & K.P. Innovation
35 Cotton Alley Communication: Endless Possibilities Past Present Future
CREATIVE BUSINESSES 17 Center 18 Revenflo
Alley Ways
37 (by Carrie Gault)
GALLERIES & ART STUDIOS
148
S Charlotte Avenue
Retail for local art and food
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Decorative Pavers & Fountain
41 (pavers by elementary & Winthrop University students)
Fountain Park
42 The Loom 43 Main Street Sculpture Gallery
Cotton Factory
44 City Hall Plaza - Garden, Fountain & Clock Tower
City Hall, Black Street
Main Street & Dave Lyle Blvd
CULTURAL RESOURCES
CULTURAL DISTRICT Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
OAKLA N
V DA
ST
LU
N
DA
ST
HN
RE
12
E LAN
BLA CK
STR
EET
40
E ER AT EA VE NU FED CO N
STR
EET
22
OR
ET
24
IN
TR EET
JO
MA
41
7
ST O
TH
24 RE ET
39
13
ES
34
SA
15
25
ST
23
6
RE ET
1 44
9 31 17 32 3 29 30 10 2 21
ABE
33 37 11
27
4
LIZ
26
19 18
36
AN G
8
FIGURE 7.2 OLD TOWN ROCK HILL, SC HISTORIC WALKING TOUR MAP & GUIDE
5
43 35 16 28
38
VEN OTTE A
VD BL
CHARL
E YL EL
NE
ET
RE
ST
UE
TE HI
14 42
D AVEN
W
16
UE
20
HA MP TO N
MAP 7.3
Building Footprints
Parks & Open Spaces
Historic Walking Tour VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
149
CULTURAL RESOURCES
COUNCILS AND ORGANIZATIONS ARTS COUNCIL OF YORK COUNTY The Arts Council was formed in 2001 through the merging of two mainstay arts organizations - the Rock Hill Arts Council (chartered in 1978) and ARTS etc. (formerly the Fine Arts Association, which was founded in 1975). Several years later the Arts Council grew to serve the county and is now known as the Arts Council of York County. Their mission is to create arts programming that encourages education, economic development, and arts advocacy through
is to promote respect, appreciation, and understanding of diversity among all people in the community by promoting positive human relations and reducing discrimination, assessing and responding to the human relations needs of our community. The Council sponsors many events throughout the year including Race Equality Week, an MLK breakfast, and various Black History Month events.
unique art experience that engage the community to make York County a
ROCK HILL QUALITY OF LIFE COMMITTEE
regional arts destination.
The Quality of Life Committee works to improve quality of life by supporting
INTERNATIONAL CENTER OF YORK COUNTY Although Rock Hill has not experienced the same type of Hispanic population growth as some areas in the Charlotte MSA, the growth has brought the need to assist the non-English speaking population. Churches, non-profit organizations, and government agencies offer outreach efforts to address these cultural issues. Specifically, the International Center of York County
economic development efforts that improve infrastructure, transportation, and the environment. This Committee is part of the Rock Hill Economic Development Corporation (RHEDC) and is comprised of RHEDC members. The Committee has always pushed for the integration of arts-, history-, and cultural-components in the community, but recent initiatives have especially focused on promotion of the arts.
(ICYC) was established in 2003 to better assist with these needs.
OTHER RELATED GROUPS & PROGRAMS
OLD TOWN ASSOCIATION
Rock Hill has many organizations, groups and programs that support various
The Old Town Association is a citizen’s group committed to the sustained redevelopment of Rock Hill’s downtown area. This non-profit organization coordinates festivals and events in downtown Rock Hill among other activities. ROCK HILL COMMUNITY RELATIONS COUNCIL In 2014 the City Council consolidated the Committee on Human Relations, the No Room for Racism Committee, and the Martin Luther King Committee into the Rock Hill Community Relations Council. The purpose of the Council
150
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
related art and culture goals, including, but not limited to Women's Art Initiative Friday Arts Project Rock Hill Poet Laureate program Historic Rock Hill
NATURAL RESOURCES
NATURAL RESOURCES Natural resources provide numerous environmental benefits and improve our quality of life. It is important to protect these natural resources as our region and City grows. This element discusses the three main areas that make up our natural environment --
Air
the air we breathe
Land
Water
soils, environmentally sensitive
water bodies, floodplains,
areas, trees, plants & animals
stormwater, water
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
153
NATURAL RESOURCES
AIR
LAND
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates air quality standards
SOILS
through the Clean Air Act. Areas that do not meet these standards are
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resource Conservation Service
considered "nonattainment areas". Eastern York County is not considered a
published Soil Survey of York County in 1965 to aid farmers and foresters in
nonattainment area and is currently in maintenance.
the location and details of soil in the County. It is also used by engineers and developers with site selection.
As discussed in the Transportation Element, RFATS receives CMAQ funding of approximately $2 million spend on projects that improve air quality and
Soils are often mapped by association due to the uniformity of adjacent soils
reduce emissions.
Projects generally include intersection improvements
and for convenience - there are over 30 soil types in the Planning Area. There
aimed at improving efficiency and reducing the time cars spend idling
are five soil associations in the Planning Area, Map 8.1. These soils are generally
to reduce emissions.
The City has also implemented improvements
good for agriculture and development, but not good for septic tanks. In some
such as expanding the bike and pedestrian network, implementing a
areas, primarily in the southern portion of the Planning Area, there is a lot
zero-emission transit-system, retrofitting its vehicle fleet and more.
of Iredell soil, commonly referred to as Blackjacks soil. The soil is sandy and rocking and can be financially prohibitive to develop.
Clean Air Act [Fast Facts] Passed by Congress in 1970 Major revisions in 1977 & 1990 Purpose: Regulate Air Pollution Sets standards for six common pollutants: particulate matter
nitrogen dioxide
ozone
carbon monoxide
sulfur dioxide
lead
154
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
NATURAL RESOURCES
MAP 8.1 SOILS Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Tatum-Nason-Manteo Cecil-Lloyd-Appling Iredell-Mecklenburg-Davidson Lloyd-Cecil-Enon Enon-Mecklenburg Water Bodies Planning Area Boundary
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
155
NATURAL RESOURCES
ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS
RIPARIAN BUFFERS
Environmentally sensitive areas provide many benefits including stormwater
Riparian buffers are vegetated areas next to rivers, streams, and creeks that
management, improving water quality, and preserving plant and animal habitat.
protect them from pollution, provide bank stabilization, and support aquatic
Mismanagement of these areas can lead to costly infrastructure improvements
life and wildlife habitat. The City has riparian buffer requirements in place to
and impacts such as flooding, slope failures, and degradation of air and water
protect the river, streams, and creeks from disturbance and encroachment
quality. Environmentally sensitive areas in the Planning Area include:
impacts associated with land development. Buffer widths vary from 50 feet to 150 feet based on the water body type. The County also has overlay zones
FLOODPLAINS
that require 50 to 100 foot buffers depending on the water body type.
Floodplains are low-lying areas adjacent to a river, stream, or creek that are vulnerable to flooding or stormwater impacts. Floodplains in the study area
PERMANENT CONSERVATION AREAS
are typically located along the Catawba River and major streams and creeks
These areas are environmental or historical areas that are protected from
feeding into the river.
future development. They are generally purchased by a governmental agency or conservation group.
WETLANDS Wetlands are low-lying areas saturated with water for an extended period
In December of 2018, York County purchased 1,900 acres along the Catawba
of time or even permanently. There are over 2,150 acres of wetlands in the
River to preserve as a recreational area.
Planning Area, 200 acres of which are in the City.
Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) acquired two tracts of land and
In 1995, the South Carolina
established the Blackjacks Heritage Preserve which is home to the endangered
Before you dig... Any development impacting a regulatory wetland requires a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers prior to construction.
Schweinitz's Sunflower. The City established River Park in 1995 to protect 70 acres of wetlands and woodlands along the Catawba River. York County's York County Forever Commission was formed in 1998 with the goal of promoting and protecting the County's significant natural, cultural, historic, and environmental resources. More information on the Commission can be found here. Additionally, the Nation Ford Land Trust is a private, non-profit, tax-exempt organization that seeks to preserve open space, scenic heritage, and undeveloped land throughout the unincorporated York County. More information on the Nation Ford Land Trust can be found here.
156
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
NATURAL RESOURCES
MAP 8.2 NATURAL FEATURES Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development, FEMA, National Wetland Inventory
Perennial Stream Conservation Areas Wetlands 100-Year Floodplain 500-Year Floodplain Floodprone Areas Water Bodies Planning Area Boundary
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
157
NATURAL RESOURCES
Both the City and County have open space requirements for all new
Since 1987, Rock Hill has been recognized as a Tree City USA by the Arbor
development.
In the City, developers must set aside 20% of residential
Foundation. The designation was received through the efforts of enacting a
developments and 15% of mixed-use or non-residential developments for
tree ordinance and creating the Rock Hill Tree Commission. Additionally,
open space in all areas of the City, except Downtown and Mixed-Use zoning
the City has the A.W. Huckle Beautification Committee who administers the
districts which 10% is required for all types of development. The County
proceeds of a $25,000 gift Mr. Huckle gave to the City in 1960 to plant trees
requires between 10% and 25% depending on the development type. The
and shrubs along streets and other public spaces.
County also has a conservation subdivision option in their Zoning Ordinance where open space is determined by a sliding scale. STEEP SLOPES The City of Rock Hill defines steep slopes as lands with natural slopes of 15% or greater. The City does not have many areas where steep slopes are a concern. Most areas with greater slopes are located along water bodies and are protected through the City’s riparian buffer ordinance. The City has a steep slope ordinance that regulates grading, tree removal, and other site disturbance activities in remaining steep slope areas. PARKS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS There are over 800 acres of park land in 31 parks and five recreation centers in the City. There are also over 23 miles or shared use paths. More information on these facilities can be found in the Parks and Recreation section of the Community Facilities Element and the Bike and Ped Network section of the Transportation Element. TREE CANOPY A robust tree canopy improves air quality, reduces stormwater runoff, improves water and soil quality, and improves physical and mental health. The City forester is responsible for maintaining and monitoring tree canopy, determining when trees are to be cut down, and leading tree planting projects. 158
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Tree City USA flag at City Hall
Tree planting
The City has a Community Forestry Management Plan that guides tree management, a Memorial Tree Program, and various tree education programs. More information can be found on the Community Forestry website found here. The City's Zoning Ordinance establishes standards for tree canopy retention standards for tree clearing for new development and priority areas for retention. Standards vary on the type of development and can be found here. PLANT AND ANIMAL HABITAT Growth and development threatens plant and animal habitat. According to the SCDNR, there are over 50 species with various levels of concern in York County. There are eight species with heightened level of concern which range from at risk, threatened, and endangered, Figure 8.1.
NATURAL RESOURCES
BROWNFIELDS
FIGURE 8.1 SPECIES OF CONCERN
Rooted in textile manufacturing, the City of Rock Hill has a vibrant brownfields
Source: South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
program. There are over 55 brownfields located near/in Old Town (14 are city-owned). Rock Hill’s brownfields program is a collaboration between city departments, non-profits, state and federal agencies, developers and the community. Since 2003 the City’s brownfields program has received more
Threatened Pool Sprite
At Risk Georgia Aster
Threatened Bald Eagle
At Risk Tricolored Bat
than $2.7 million in grants and loans from the Environmental Protection Agency. These grants and loans have resulted in over $100 million leveraged in the Knowledge Park area alone. The City brownfields program has over 10 active projects in which they are identifying environmental contaminants and coordinating redevelopment with stakeholders. MAP 8.3 DOWNTOWN BROWNFIELDS Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Endangered Schweinitz's Sunflower
At Risk Monarch Butterfly
At Risk Sun-facing Cone Flower
SPECIES OF CONCERN Animals Plants
0.1 Miles
2 at risk
2 at risk
1 threatened
1 threatened
1 endangered
1 endangered
Endangered Carolina Heelsplitter VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
159
NATURAL RESOURCES
Grow Inside First...
CATAWBA RIVER The Catawba River, Map 8.1, flows for about 320 miles from the Blue Ridge
Why: Conserve and protect land
Mountains of western North Carolina into Lake Wateree in South Carolina.
How: Annex enclaves and extend utilities at the correct time
Most of the Catawba River is dammed, but there is a large “free flowing” section
Example: City investment of over $30 mil to support redevelopment of Knowledge Park
from the base of the Lake Wylie dam downstream to the South Carolina Highway #9 Bridge that was designated as a South Carolina Scenic River in June 2008. The river is used for power production, industry, agriculture, drinking water, wastewater treatment, and recreation. Population growth has put severe strains on the river. Water quality is impaired at many locations and droughts have caused water shortages and fostered
WATER Water provides of variety of uses such as consumption, wastewater treatment, flood risk reduction, recreation, and habitat.
Mismanagement of water
resources can lead to flooding, drought, degradation of water quality, and other economic and environmental impacts.
transfers of water out of the basin. The Catawba Riverkeeper is a non-profit citizens group who educates and advocates for the health, protection, and enjoyment of the Catawba River watershed. The focus of their program is on improving water quality through monitoring and conservation advocacy, and on increasing public awareness through education and partnerships. More
WATERBODIES
information on the Catawba Rivekeeper can be found here.
CATAWBA-WATEREE RIVER BASIN
The City offers many opportunities for ecotourism along the river. In 1995,
The Catawba-Wateree River basin originates in North Carolina and flows into
the City opened River Park which includes kayak/canoe launch. In 2012, the
South Carolina. The basin is roughly 225 miles long and contains 5,000 miles of
City opened another kayak/canoe launch in Riverwalk. There is also a trail that
waterways. It supplies two million people with drinking water in 24 counties.
connects Riverwalk to River Park. People recreating on the river can use the six-mile blueway that begins at the Fort Mill Dam and ends at River Park, or
Although the Catawba-Wateree River Basin is relatively undeveloped, it is one of the fastest growing areas in the United States.
160
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
they can continue another 18 miles to the Lansford Canal State Park.
NATURAL RESOURCES
LAKE WYLIE Lake Wylie is a 12,455 acre man-made lake with 325 miles of shoreline that
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT FLOODPLAIN
was first created by a dam in 1904 which was rebuilt in 1925. It is located
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) produces a Flood
at the northern extent of the Planning area, Map 8.1. It is managed by Duke
Insurance Rate Map that identifies areas of flood risks in the City. The City
Energy. They manage lake levels, water use restrictions during droughts, and
participates in FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program so that flood
regulate facility types and how they are built and maintained through their
insurance is available to residents. The City has adopted and enforces a flood
Shoreline Management Plan.
damage prevention ordinance that allows for regulation of new development within the 100-year floodplain or Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). The
The Lake Wylie Marine Commission is a governing board that oversees the
Stormwater Division identified flood prone areas outside the FEMA flood
health and safety concerns on Lake Wylie.
zones as part of its Stormwater Master Plan which helped to identify problem
More information about the
Commission can be found here.
areas and prioritize improvement projects.
Floodplain Management [Fast Facts] 1,650+ 230+ 520 10% Building the dam in 1890
Existing dam from 1925
acres of 100-year floodplain in the City acres of 500-year floodplain in the City acres of flood prone areas in the City savings on flood insurance premiums for City participation in the FEMA Community Rating System
PERENNIAL STREAMS AND CREEKS Several major streams and creeks flow through the study area and ultimately into the Catawba River, including Big Dutchmen Creek, Manchester Creek, Burgis Creek, Wildcat Creek, Taylors Creek and Hidden Creek. In total, there are 185 miles of perennial streams in the Planning Area, 34 miles of which are in the City. If you would like to care for a stream by tracking and monitoring its water quality, visit the SC Adopt-a-Stream website here. VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
161
NATURAL RESOURCES
STORMWATER As a operator of "municipal separate stormwater sewer system" (MS4s) with
Management Design Manual. The Zoning Ordinance can be found here and
a population of less than 100,000, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
the Stormwater Management Design Manual can be found here.
requires the City to participate in its Phase I and II Stormwater Program. Phase I aims to control stormwater runoff using best management practices
In 2013, the Stormwater Division developed a Neighborhood Stormwater
(BMPs) in six areas:
Project List of neighborhood stormwater issues that need addressing. The
•
Public Involvement
•
Illicit Discharge Detention
•
•
Good Housekeeping and Pollution Prevention
and Elimination
•
Public Education
Construction Site
•
Post Construction
Runoff Management
Stormwater Management
highest priority projects are put into their Capital Improvement Program List. Both lists are continually updated as new needs arise. Information on projects, project amounts, and privatization can be found on the City's stormwater page located here.
WASTEWATER
Phase II expands on Phase I by requiring MS4s and small construction sides to
A well-maintained collection and treatment system for wastewater is
implement programs and practices to control polluted stormwater through
important to the quality of water available for consumption.
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Systems permits. More information
wastewater is treated and released into the Catawba River at the Manchester
on the programs can be found here.
Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. Leaks due to age, backups, and excessive
The City's
stormwater into sewer lines during heavy rainfall impact quality. To prevent $
Did you know...
Property owners can receive a stormwater fee credit of up to 25% for adequately installed and maintained stormwater mitigation facilities.
these overflows, the Utility Department routinely cleans main sewer lines, monitors outflows, and identifies and fixes leaks in the system before they become an issue. Septic system failures in unserved areas can greatly impact water quality. A permit is required to build a septic system through York County's Department of Health and Environmental Control. Older septic tanks were installed based
The City manages stormwater runoff from new development through its
on outdated soil testing methods that would not pass today. Also, lack of
Stormwater Management Ordinance, found here. Developers are required to
maintenance, missing, broken, or worn fittings, incorrect installation, and
submit a Stormwater Management and Sediment Control Plan prior to building
improvement use can contribute to septic failures.
plans being issued which is guided by the Zoning Ordinance and Stormwater 162
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
NATURAL RESOURCES
WATER CONSERVATION The Catawba-Wateree River Basin has experienced varied degrees of drought conditions over the last few decades. Between August 2006 and December 2009, the state of South Carolina declared a statewide drought, including the worst drought in recorded history in 2007. The drought damaged aquatic habitat, caused structural damage to major infrastructure and boat ramp closures, and threatened public water supply. These conditions led to the implementation and enforcement of mandatory water conservation measures by all water providers, including the City. Measures taken to manage drought conditions in our area are: CATAWBA-WATEREE DROUGHT MANAGEMENT ADVISORY GROUP Created to develop protocol and procedures for reductions in water usage
Drink up... The City's public water system is regulated by the Safe Drinking Water Act which require it to meet national drinking water standards. The City must publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report with: - Whats in the water - Where it comes from - How standards are achieved. According to the 2018 report, the City performed over 3,000 tests at 164 sites and found no violations in the City's drinking water.
during periods of low inflow. Find out more here. CATAWBA-WATEREE WATER MANAGEMENT GROUP Developed a basin-wide water supply master plan in 2014 to ensure the water supply will support the growing needs in the region for the next century. Find
TIERED WATER RATE STRUCTURE AND CONSERVATION MONTHS - Residential customers are billed on a tiered rate structure. The more you
out more here.
use the higher the rate.
DROUGHT RESPONSE ORDINANCE
rate during peak usage months - May through October.
Provides guidance on actions the City should take to conserve water during different stages of a drought. Find out more here.
- Commercial and industrial customers are charged a higher consumption
ADVANCED METERING INFRASTRUCTURE (AMI) By the end of 2019, the City's goal is to have a fully operating system where
RECLAIMED WATER SYSTEM
water meters can be read remotely. It will allow the City to detect problems,
Since 2009, the City has used reclaimed water to irrigate Manchester
such as water leaks, more quickly and prevent theft of water which will keep
Meadows, Manchester Village Shops, and Galleria Mall area to reduce water
costs down.
withdrawal from Lake Wylie and decrease the amount of potable water used for irrigation. VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
163
NATURAL RESOURCES
Keeping it green for a g r e e n e r to m o r r o w , today
Green Education
Green Activities
York County Soil & Water Conservation District
Alternative Fuel
Promote wise and responsible land use of natural resources through education, demonstration projects, and technical services to primarily schools and farmers. Visit their website here.
Charging stations, electric buses, alternative fuel City vehicles
Making the workplace greener and more sustainable
Energy Reduction Campaign
Rock Hill Clean & Green Board
Reduce energy usage
City of Rock Hill Environmental Educator - Speaks at school and community groups about all things green Outdoor Education Coordinator - Runs student programming like hiking and kayaking trips, bike rides, family programs, school trips, etc.
Lighting LED signals and street lights, motion sensors, energy efficient lights
School Recycling Revenue share program
Renewable Energy Zoning ordinance addresses solar energy
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Providing leadership, education, and coordination of community programs
How to improve recycling efforts
Encouraging buying greener products
164
Green Team
In-House Recycling Initiative
Purchasing Policy Reduce Reuse Recycle
Green Groups
Yes! Conserve
PUBLIC HEALTH
PUBLIC HEALTH Health and the built environment are inextricably linked. Decisions about
TIP THE SCALE
land use, transportation, community facilities, housing, and parks and open
prevention is better than a cure
space have implications for physical activity, mental health, air and water
While there are many aspects that influence and impact our health and wellness, the majority of illness and poor health are systemic of poor behavioral choices. Shifting the focus to prevention is the most effective way to obtain good health and wellness.
quality, and accessibility. The content of each plan element is informed by the connection between health and the built environment, health is also largely influenced by our individual behavior such as our diet and exercise.
poor health
Although not required by South Carolina statute as a plan element, the City has developed this Public Health element to share health-related data and efforts underway in support of resident quality and longevity of life. Health data is primarily collected by federal and state agencies, foundations, and health institutes and is most often available at the national, state, and county levels. Very little health data is available at the local level. Thus the
DIET
following sections indicate how South Carolina fares relative to the nation
EXERCISE
and when available York County and Rock Hill data is included. Health and wellness is influenced by many factors including our genetics,
CHRONIC DISEASES
good wellness
ACCIDENTS ADDICTIONS CHRONIC FATIGUE FOOD DESERTS
ROUTINE CHECK-UPS
POOR WATER & AIR QUALITY
WORK-LIFE BALANCE
behaviors, environment and social dimensions such as education and
NUTRITION DEFICIENCIES
income level. It is difficult to sort through correlation verses causation. What is considered 'healthy' one day may be deemed 'unhealthy' the next. Even further, what affects one person often does not affect another in the same way. Most would agree though that wellness is paramount. While our health care system has historically been focused on the treatment of chronic disease and illness, more emphasis is being made on prevention and better, daily behavior choices.
genetics behavior
social environment
H E A LTH I NFL U E NC E RS
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
167
PUBLIC HEALTH
LEADING CAUSES OF DEATH Figure 9.1 highlights the 2017 top seven causes of death in the United States as compared to South Carolina, York County and Rock Hill. Cancer
FIGURE 9.1 LEADING CAUSES OF DEATH, PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION, 2017 Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and S.C. DHEC. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nvss/mortality/lcwk5_hr.htm http://scangis.dhec.sc.gov/scan/bdp/tables/table.aspx?row=6&col=0&drill=0&rotateafterload=false&hasdrill=1.
and heart disease continue to be the leading causes. Obesity is one of the key commonalities among the leading causes of death.
U.S.
York County
South Carolina
Rock Hill (by zip code 29730, 29732)
It is associated with four of the top seven causes of death including some types of cancer, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Additionally those
0%
with other life threatening diseases find that extra weight can exacerbate their condition.
“
CANCER
DISEASES OF HEART
ACCIDENTS
“
The doctor of the future will no longer treat the human
frame with drugs, but rather
will cure and prevent disease with nutrition.
168
– Thomas Edison
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
CHRONIC LOWER RESPITORY DISEASE CEREBROVASULAR DISEASE (STROKE) ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE
DIABETES MELLITUS
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
PUBLIC HEALTH
THE FACTS ABOUT OBESITY While the number of obese adults, (BMI of greater than 30), in the United States
HOW IS OBESITY DEFINED?
and South Carolina has been rising, the number of obese youth has been rising
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is used as an initial screening tool.
even faster, Figures 9.2. Similarly, those who have an overweight classification
For adults, these ranges are defined as -
(BMI of 25 - 30) has also risen; youth overweight classification has outpaced the
BMI
Weight Status
rise in adult overweight classification. This trend is considerably troubling since
< 18.5
Underweight
there is a higher risk that youth who are overweight or obese are more likely to
18.5 - 25.0
Healthy weight
25.0 - 30.0
Overweight
> 30.0
Obese
be adults with weight related health issues. The increase in health related costs is reflective of these rising trends.
Know your BMI? Use these calculators here for adults & youth! FIGURE 9.2 PERCENTAGE OF OBESE ADULTS & YOUTH COMPARISON, 2011 - 2017
Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/adult/defining.html
Source: CDC. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS)
U.S. Adults (18+ yrs of age)
U.S.Youth (9-12 yrs of age)
S. C. Adults (18+ yrs of age)
S.C.Youth (9-12 yrs of age)
WHY DOES OBESITY MATTER?
35% Poor nutrition & inactivity lead to higher risk of being
30%
over wei gh t
bese
$$$ $ $$
20%
15%
wh
PERCENTAGE OF ADULT POPULATION (%)
&o
25%
10%
5%
to ds lea h ic
eases nic dis f chro o k s i er r high
$
$ $$$ $ $ $$ which leads to higher risk of death
0%
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
Source: Journal of General Internal Medicine, April 2107, Volume 32, pp6-8, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs11606-016-3968-8
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
169
PUBLIC HEALTH
THE OBESITY EPIDEMIC & ITS COST
The United States has seen a considerable rise in the number of overweight and obese population particularly since the 1970s. The
65%
AMERICANS OVERWEIGHT OR OBESE
$342
majority of Americans today are overweight or obese. Obesity is serious;
BILLION
it is linked to chronic diseases and causes of death. Obesity is complex;
U.S. MEDICAL COSTS OF OBESITY (2013 DOLLARS)
it does not impact everyone in the same way. Obesity is costly; it is estimated to cost Americans more $342 billion annually (in 2013 dollars). Unlike other serious health issues that are genetic, being overweight or obese is largely preventable and controllable through good nutrition and physical activity. For this reason, the following sections focus on a
10TH HIGHEST OBESITY NATIONAL RANK IN 2018
$3,582 S.C.
MORE ANNUALLY ON AVERAGE IN MEDICAL COSTS / S.C. OBESE PERSON
better understanding of the implications of obesity and what resources are available to improve our health.
HIGHER RISK GROUPS While obesity can impact anyone, some are at more risk than others. According to the 2017 BRFSS data, those adults with a greater prevalence
2 of 3 S.C. adults overweight or obese
1 of 3 S.C. youth overweight or obese
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, BRFSS & YRBSS https://nccd.cdc.gov/dnpao_dtm/rdPage.aspx?rdReport=DNPAO_DTM. ExploreByTopic&islClass=OWS&islTopic=OWS1&islYear=20172017
S.C. Dept. of Health & Environmental Control https://www.scdhec.gov/health/nutrition-obesity-physical-health
The State of Obesity, a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. https://www.stateofobesity.org/childhood/, fast facts.
170
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
of obesity include •
middle-aged adults
•
various racial and ethnic groups particularly African Americans and American Indians
•
adults living in rural areas
•
adults with lower education attainment
•
lower income adults
•
adults who were overweight or obese children
PUBLIC HEALTH
FIGURE 9.3 PERCENTAGE OF ADULTS AND YOUTH CONSUMING FRUIT AND VEGETABLES LESS THAN ONCE A DAY, 2011 - 2017 Source: CDC. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS)
FRUIT PERCENTAGE OF ADULT POPULATION (%)
Good nutrition is the best single way to support a long and healthy life. Yet according to the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), there
U.S. Adults (18+ yrs of age)
U.S.Youth (9-12 yrs of age)
are more South Carolina adults than the national average consuming fruits
S. C. Adults (18+ yrs of age)
S.C.Youth (9-12 yrs of age)
and vegetables less than once a day, Figure 9.3.; with the exception of the 2011 and 2017 year surveys when results showed that few adults in South
60%
Carolina, compared to the National average, consumed vegetables less than once a day. Likewise, according to the Youth Risk Behavioral Surveillance
50%
System (YRBSS), there are more South Carolina youth than the national 40%
average consuming fruits and vegetables less than once a day, Figure 9.3.
30%
20%
HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?
10%
0%
2011
2013
2015
2017
60%
VEGETABLES PERCENTAGE OF ADULT POPULATION (%)
DIET
The average American eats 17 teaspoons of added sugar a day according to the American Health Association. That is almost twice the recommended amount for men (9 teaspoons) and three times the recommended amount for women and children (6 teaspoons). The story is similar for sodium and oils/fats. recommended guideline for
50%
men
women
SUGAR
9 teaspoons
6 teaspoons
SODIUM
1/3 teaspoon
1/4 teaspoon
OILS & FATS
8 teaspoons
6 teaspoons
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
2011
2013
2015
2017
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Diaetary Guidelines 2015 - 2020. Guidelines vary by age and health conditions, learn more here.
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
171
PUBLIC HEALTH
EXERCISE Combining regular physical activity with a good diet is the ideal for achieving
Even though the physical objectives are different for youth than adults (60
overall fitness. Similarly to diet, the majority of Americans do not meet the
minutes or more per day of moderate to vigorous activity for youth), a similar
recommended physical activity objectives. The BRFSS reported that an even
disparity exists for youth. The lower percentage of South Carolina youth than
lower percentage of adults living in South Carolina are not meeting the aerobic
the national average meet physical activity objectives, Figure 9.4. Of further
physical activity (150 minutes per week of moderate activity or 75 minutes of
concern is the trend that those meeting the objective is decreasing.
vigorous activity) and muscle strengthening objectives (two or more times a week), Figure 9.4.
FIGURE 9.4 PERCENTAGE OF ADULTS AND YOUTH MEETING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY OBJECTIVES 2011 - 2017 Source: CDC. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS)
U.S.Youth (9-12 yrs of age)
S.C.Youth (9-12 yrs of age)
30%
15%
10%
5%
2011
2013
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
2015
2017
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION (%)
YOUTH DAILY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY OBJECTIVES
20%
0%
172
S. C. Adults (18+ yrs of age)
25%
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION (%)
ADULT PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & MUSCLE STRENGTHENING OBJECTIVES
U.S. Adults (18+ yrs of age)
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0%
2011
2013
2015
2017
PUBLIC HEALTH
FOOD ACCESS A food desert is a geographic area where a grocery store or similar food
According to the USDA Food Access Research Atlas (based on 2015 census
source is limited. More specifically, the food environment index equally weighs
tract polygons), there are six census tracts in Rock Hill where more than
the proportion of the population who are low income and do not live close to
100 housing units do not have a vehicle and are more than ½ mile from the
a grocery store and the percentage of the population who did not have access
nearest supermarket or a significant number of residents are more than 20
to a reliable source of food. The 2019 County Health Rankings & Roadmaps
miles from the nearest supermarket. Among these census tracts, there is a
indicates York County has a food environment index of 8.1 compared to the
concentration in downtown and south of downtown, Map 9.1. Additionally,
state index of 6.3 (0 is worst and 10 is best). This is an improvement over the
Map 9.2 shows where the highest concentrations of fast food establishments
2014 York County index of 7.2, but a decline for the State from a 2014 index
are located within the City. The majority are concentrated near I-77 exits and
of 7.0.
at major intersections like Heckle Boulevard/Herlong Avenue and Albright Road/East Black Street/East Main Street/East White Street.
MAP 9.1 FOOD ACCESS IN THE PLANNING AREA
MAP 9.2 FOOD SWAMPS IN THE CITY LIMITS
High
Low
Food Deserts
Planning Area VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
173
PUBLIC HEALTH
GREATER WELLNESS There are many efforts related to improving overall health at various levels of government as well as non-government organizations. The following section is not intended to be a comprehensive inventory of these efforts, but rather a launching point from which further details can be gleaned about major efforts, programs, advocacy groups, and resources, Tables 9.1 - 9.4. TABLE 9.1 STATE INITIATIVES
ORGANIZATION / SPONSORS
AREA OF FOCUS
SCaleDown
S.C. Obesity Council, Eat Smart Move More SC (ESMM), SC DHEC
Diet & Exercise
Let's Go SC
ESMM SC
Diet & Exercise
Live Healthy SC Healthier Generation
Alliance for a Healthier SC, SC DHEC & Diet & Exercise SC Office of Rural Health Alliance For A Healthier Generation, SC DHEC, American Heart Association & Diet & Exercise Clinton Foundation
PROGRAMS & ONLINE RESOURCES SC Obesity Action Plan SC Health Planning Toolkit SC Healthy Comprehensive Planning Project: Baseline Report Reports, Resources, Events and more State Health Assessment State Health Improvement Plan Resources and SC program information
SC Food Access Task Force
SC Community Loan Fund, SC Healthy Food Financing Initiative
Food Access
Healthy Food Access Portal
SC New and Beginning Farmer Program
Clemson Cooperative Extension
Food Access
Program information
Carolina Farm Stewardship Association*
Non-profit member organization
Food Access
Palmetto Cycling Coalition
SC Livable Communities Alliance, AHA & and more
Exercise
Quit Now Campaign
SC DHEC, CDC
Tobacco Use
Smokefree SC
SC Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services
Tobacco Use
Support and Program information
Creating 100 Percent Tobacco-Free Schools
SC DHEC
Tobacco Use
SC DHEC School Administrator Guide
174
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Making Small Farms into Big Business Study, 2013 Impact Report, 2017 Cycling advocacy & multimodal related policy information SC Livable Communities Alliance SC program related information CDC Fact Sheet CDC South Carolina information
PUBLIC HEALTH
TABLE 9.2 REGIONAL INITIATIVES
ORGANIZATION / SPONSORS
AREA OF FOCUS
Catawba Regional Ag + Art Tour
Clemson Cooperative Extension, SC Agritourism Association & more
Diet & Food Access
Catawba Farm and Food Coalition
Non-profit organization
Food Access
CONNECT Our Future
Consortium of regional members
Diet & Exercise
Tri County SC Girls on the Run
Non-profit organization
Exercise
PROGRAMS & ONLINE RESOURCES Event information and more Catawba Fresh Market buy local! Education, policy, planning and support Resources on Farm to School, Community Gardens, Healthy Food Access, Public Health and more Programs, events and more
TABLE 9.3 YORK COUNTY INITIATIVES
ORGANIZATION / SPONSORS
AREA OF FOCUS
PROGRAMS & ONLINE RESOURCES
Eat Smart Move More York County
ESMM South Carolina, non-profit organization
Diet & Exercise
York County Community Health Survey, 2014 Advocacy, programs, events, resources
Tobacco Free York County
Non-profit organization
Tobacco Use
Resources, awareness and support
York County Cooperative Extension
Clemson Cooperative Extension
Food Access
Program information
TABLE 9.4 ROCK HILL INITIATIVES
ORGANIZATION / SPONSORS
AREA OF FOCUS
Rock Hill School District 3
Public school system
Diet & Exercise
Rock Hill Schools Education Foundation
Non-profit organization, community + RHSD3 alliance
Diet & Exercise
Parks, Recreation & Tourism
City of Rock Hill
Exercise
Old Town Farmers Market at Legal Remedy Brewing
Only in Old Town & Legal Remedy Brewing (and more)
Diet
PROGRAMS & ONLINE RESOURCES Wellness Policy - See each school website for respective Health & Wellness Committees to get involved Back the Pack Programs and initiatives Recreational Programs - for all ages & interests A.L.L. Outdoors Facilities Trails & Greenways Map Bike Rock Hill & Map cycling awareness and advocacy campaign Schedule & application details
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
175
PUBLIC HEALTH
The City of Rock Hill along with community agenies, nonprpofit groups, and other
HEALTHCARE IN OUR AREA Piedmont Medical Center (PMC) offers alternate funding and payment plan options including a Medical Eligibility Program, a Charity Care Program, and an Uninsured Discount Program. York County Free Clinic is a free medical clinic located on Oakland Avenue in Rock Hill that provides primary care, dental care, eye care, treatment of minor acute illnesses, management of chronic health conditions, nutritional counseling for diabetes and obesity, mammography screening, and routine lab and radiology services.
organizations support a myriad of community efforts to heighten public health and wellness into the future. These effforts can be in the form of policy, plans, grants, and other initiatives to fulfill community needs, Table 9.5. TABLE 9.5 OTHER LOCAL SUPPORT INITIATIVES
PROGRAMS & ONLINE RESOURCES BlueCross BlueShield of S.C. Foundation
Health Priority Grants Catalyst Grants WISE grant program
Rock Hill Educational Community Garden
Winthrop University, City of Rock Hill, Clemson Master Gardeners, and more
Community Medicine Foundation also operates both a main office (North Central Family Medical Center) on Saluda Street, and a satellite site (North Central Pediatric and Adolescent Center) on Herlong Avenue that provides affordable health care services to residents.
Community Gardening Grants ESMM SC, USDA, NRCS, & SCACED Garden Fresh Vegetables Project
City of Rock Hill employees donate fresh fruits and vegetables to non-profits like Pilgrim's Inn & Project Hope
York Technical College has a Dental Clinic associated with its Dental Technologies Program that provides oral health services including oral exams, teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments and x-rays.
various jurisdictional plans
2045 Long Range Transportation Plan Update (RFATS) RFATS TIP progress report Connect Rock Hill - Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan Trails and Greenways Master Plan Update Directions - PRT Master Plan College Town Area Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan Carolina Thread Trail Master Plan
various jurisdictional policies & ordinances
Complete Streets Advocacy Manual City of Rock Hill Zoning Ordinance, Primary Uses, Chapter 4 & Community Design Standards, Chapter 6
Affinity Health Center provides medical care and support services for people living with HIV/AIDS.
176
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
LAND USE
LAND USE This element provides an overview of the existing land use which is important to identify and characterize areas within the planning area. The existing land use map is a critical component in generating the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) which will be discussed in the Vision document. Additionally, this element will provide a parcel density analysis and basic analysis for both infill and greenfield development.
EXISTING LAND USE INVENTORY Each parcel in the Planning Area has been classified into 12 different land uses which are described on the following page. As parcels change use, the Existing Land Use Map, Map 10.1 and Existing Land Use Table, Table 10.1 will be updated. The most common land use type in the Planning Area is undeveloped land and the most common in the City is single-family. TABLE 10.1 EXISTING LAND USE Source: Rock Hill Planning & Development Department
EXISTING LAND USE
PLANNING AREA ACRES
% OF PLANNING AREA
CITY ACRES
% OF CITY
CITY LAND USE SHARE
UNDEVELOPED
44,683
40%
5,947
28%
13%
PARKS AND OPEN SPACE
3,927
3%
1,274
6%
27%
RURAL RESIDENTIAL
29,137
26%
82
< 1%
0%
SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED
18,847
17%
6,285
29%
33%
SINGLE-FAMILY ATTACHED
148
0%
118
1%
80%
MULTI-FAMILY
1,388
1%
893
4%
64%
PUBLIC & INSTITUTIONAL
4,942
4%
3,411
16%
69%
294
0%
268
1%
91%
2,651
2%
1,728
8%
65%
MIXED-USE
8
0%
8
< 1%
100%
INDUSTRIAL
5,932
5%
1,577
7%
27%
993
1%
0
0%
0%
OFFICE COMMERCIAL
CATAWBA INDIAN NATION
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
179
LAND USE
180
UNDEVELOPED Wooded, agriculture, infill-ready, deteriorated buildings, or no structure
PUBLIC AND INSTITUTIONAL Governmental entity, utility provider, church, hospital, education, or elderly care
PARKS AND OPEN SPACE Environmentally sensitive, recreational, or Homeowners' Association managed
OFFICE Space for employees such as medical, financial, legal, or similar professionals
RURAL RESIDENTIAL Single-family home located in rural areas that lack formal/modern subdivision layouts
COMMERCIAL Retail or provision of services
SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED Single-family home located in subdivisions or in a more urban setting
MIXED-USE Combo of residential, commercial, office, employment, or recreation
SINGLE-FAMILY ATTACHED Single home occupied by two families
INDUSTRIAL Manufacturing, distribution, assembly, warehousing, or chemical production
MULTI-FAMILY Single-parcel occupied by multiple families
CATAWBA INDIAN NATION Catawba Indian Nation-owned land
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
LAND USE
MAP 10.1 EXISTING LAND USE Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
181
LAND USE
PARCEL SIZE ANALYSIS The majority of parcels less than 1 acre are located within the City limits and within subdivisions in the Planning Area, Map 10.2. There are still some large tracts of land within the City limits, but they are primarily parks and University/Colleges. The majority of large, undeveloped, privately-owned tracts are located in the County. These lands could be developed as greenfield developments in the future if the land is sold.
INFILL DEVELOPMENT
GREENFIELD DEVELOPMENT
There are nearly 1,500 undeveloped parcels within the City between 0.25
There are 500 parcels over 20 acres within the Planning Area that could
and 20 acres that could be used for infill development depending on zoning
be used for greenfield development depending on zoning environmental
environmental constraints, and other factors.
constraints, and other factors.
182
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
LAND USE
MAP 10. 2 PARCEL SIZE ANALYSIS Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Less than 1 Acre 1 - 5 Acres 5 - 20 Acres 20 - 50 Acres 50 - 100 Acres Over 100 Acres Planning Area Boundary
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
183
LAND USE
LAND USE DEVELOPMENT AND FORMS Land use patterns have created areas with different character throughout the Planning Area. The heart of the City, Old Town, reflects the historic urban core of the City. This area contains a mix of uses and higher densities and street connectivity than other areas. Old Town is surrounded by Suburban Neighborhoods, which make up the majority of the City. Suburban Neighborhoods are primarily comprised of single-family detached residential subdivisions that are dependent on the automobile and largely isolated from other developments and land uses. The City has one mixed-use center, in Riverwalk, that emphasizes active living in a mixed-use environment. Commercial uses are located along major roads and at key intersections, and are also largely disconnected from adjacent businesses and surrounding neighborhoods. On the edges of Suburban Neighborhoods are Edge Management areas that are more rural in nature, but are experiencing the greatest growth pressures. These areas also primarily contain single-family detached homes, but often at lower densities, based on the availability of utilities. Existing and emerging employment areas are located primarily around the interstate.
RELATIONSHIP TO THE ZONING ORDINANCE Zoning is a tool to help implement land use policies. Therefore, the Zoning Map and regulations should reflect the land use policies contained in the Comprehensive Plan as much as practicable and feasible. However, zoning is a legal implementing tool at a parcel specific level, while the Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan is a broader policy guide. Further, both land use policy and zoning regulations operate amid ever changing land use patterns and development dynamics. As a result, there are instances where zoning does not specifically reflect the existing land use patterns or policies. Map 10.3 is a generalized zoning map. For instance, where single-family is shown, there are five single-family zoning districts (SF-2, SF-3, SF-4, SF-5, and SF-8). These districts vary on intensity with SF-2 being the least intense, and SF-8 being the most intense and only permitted in Old Town. The Zoning Ordinance can be view here.
184
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
LAND USE
MAP 10. 3 GENERALIZED ZONING MAP Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Single-Family Multi-Family Office Commercial Mixed-Use Downtown Industrial Planning Area Boundary
2 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
185
RESILIENCY
RESILIENCY After five years of unprecedented flood events, the South Carolina General Assembly passed the Disaster Relief and Resilience Act in 2020. This Act was adopted to support efforts that minimize the impact of severe flood events and that facilitate recovery. Severe flood events, often associated with hurricanes, are most likely to occur in South Carolina's Lowcountry communities. Located in the higher elevation region of the Piedmont and about 160 miles west of the coast, the City of Rock Hill is less likely to experience the level of devastation related to hurricanes that Lowcountry areas have historically faced. Yet the risk is not zero, as many area residents recall from having lived through Hurricane Hugo in 1989. Even though rising sea levels and climate changes are anticipated to cause greater future risk, Rock Hill's level of risk is anticipated to remain relatively low in comparison to other eastern, South Carolina communities. For purposes of comparison, the projected flood risk in 30 years for Mount Pleasant is 77%, for Summerville 13%, and for Rock Hill is 5% (FloodFactor - https://floodfactor.com/city/rock-hill-southcarolina/4561405_fsid). Rock Hill has other types of flood risks being located below the Lake Wylie dam. Additionally, as a major utility provider in the region, Rock Hill must be prepared for this risk and related types of disasters, even if the risk is considered low like a dam breach. More over, recent events like the COVID-19 pandemic have further raised the importance of a community's resiliency. Emergency preparedness and continuity planning by local governments is necessary in the provisioning of essential services to citizens. The City's motto, "Always On," is supported by leadership, staff, and fellowallied agencies committed to serving the Rock Hill community. The City has a strong history of planning and programs to enable emergency response, hazard mitigation, and continuity of operations, all tied closely to community communications and neighborhood engagement.
“ “ Resiliency is the ability of
our community to respond, recover, and thrive despite
The Disaster Relief and Resilience Act requires the Resiliency element to •
include an inventory of existing resiliency conditions,
•
promote resilient planning, design and development, and
•
be coordinated with adjacent and relevant jurisdictions and agencies.
The City's Resiliency element not only addresses these requirements, but it also takes a broad view of what resiliency means for Rock Hill - beyond weather-related challenges, Rock Hill will consider and integrate resiliency across Plan elements and in all aspects of the City's Core Values.
life's challenges.
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
189
RESILIENCY
BUILDING COMMUNITY RESILIENCY Crisis, disaster or stress can impact any one, or all, of our environments - natural, built, social, and economic. It is through hazard mitigation planning practices, Figure 11.1, that the impact of disasters on our environments can be minimized. When a crisis occurs, the impacts are typically experienced on multiple fronts. As with other Plan elements that are inter-related, resiliency must be cultivated across all elements in order to make each of our environments more resilient. This is a multi-faceted endeavor. Historically, mitigation has been the most effective activity to minimize the risk and magnitude of disasters. FIGURE 11.1 RELATIONSHIPS OF ELEMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTS Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development
Publ ic se Land U
Social Environment
Economic Environment
R al
o es
Built Environment
m Co
Fac nity mu
ilities
Natu ral
& C ult ur
A MITIG TION
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
pment evelo
Natural Environment
n
190
g
Tra nsp o rta tio
ces ur
Ho us in
RECOVERY
He alt h
D
io Pr
nt Population stme nve I y rit
ic D om
HAZAR
RESPONSE
on Ec
MI PAREDNES E R TI S P
IO T A G
HASES P N
RESILIENCY
INVENTORY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS Our natural environment's existing conditions are detailed in the Natural Resources element and includes our watersheds, basins, floodplains and wetlands. Detailed existing conditions about our built environment are included in the Land Use, Housing, Economic Development, Transportation, Community Facilities, and Cultural Resources elements. Existing conditions about our economic environment are primarily detailed in the Economic Development element, but can also be found in the Population and Priority Investment elements. The social environment is described in a number of elements including Population, Housing, Community Facilities, Cultural Resources, and Public Health.
HAZARDS AND RISKS For purposes of this Plan, types of disasters are categorized into three major groups - natural, technological failure or human-caused accident, and human-caused assaults or attacks. This categorization purposefully separates incidents that are accidental versus intentional in order to raise the level of risk analysis, the level of preparedness, and ultimately mitigation strategies. In reality there are often hybrids; what may begin as a natural phenomenon can become tragic because of technological and/or human failures. Table 11.1 lists the major types of disasters that could occur in York County and the planning area. With the exception of disease-related disasters, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reviews plans for natural hazards. Hazards related to human causes typically involve law enforcement officers and emergency management personnel. TABLE 11.1 MAJOR TYPES OF DISASTERS PROBABLE IN THE PLANNING AREA *Note: Any of the items listed under the technological failure or human-caused accidents could be used as a means of an assault or attack.
Natural Disasters
Severe Thunderstorm Winter Weather Flood Drought Wildfire Tornado Hurricane/Tropical Storm Earthquake Disease / Pandemic
Technological Failure or Human-caused Accident
Dam Failure Airport Hazards Train Derailment Nuclear Plant Hazards Transportation & Infrastructure Accidents Utility (including pipeline & waterline ) Disruptions Industrial Site Hazards Hazardous Material Incidents Biological, Chemical & Radiological Incidents Fire Supply-Chain Disruptions
Human-caused Assault / Attack*
Terrorism & Civil Disturbance Cyber-Attacks (data & infrastructure) Armed Attack, Shooter Incident Contaminating Drinking Water Arson
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
191
RESILIENCY
PLANS AND EXISTING PROTECTIVE MEASURES The City has or is part of a number of plans, policies, and other existing protective measures that prescribe how to prepare, respond, recover, and mitigate various types of emergencies and hazards. Some of these are more focused on natural disasters, while others are focused on human caused incidents. Most are updated on a periodic basis and some of these plans are online and/or available through the identified agency/jurisdiction (hyperlinks included if available). Some of these plans are not public documents due to their sensitive nature. Many of these plans are written for personnel who have a role and/or job duty pertaining to public health, community safety, environmental health, or a strong economy. Table 11.2 provides a visual reference to quickly identify the plans (summarized on the following pages) that apply to a type of incident verses the phases of hazard mitigation. TABLE 11.2 CROSS REFERENCE MAJOR TYPES OF PLANS & EXISTING PROTECTIVE MEASURES *Note: Definition of infrastructure here is general to the built environment.
PREPAREDNESS RESPONSE RECOVERY MITIGATION
MITIGATION
Natural Disasters
Severe Thunderstorm, Winter Weather, Flood, Drought, Wildfire, Tornado, Hurricane/Tropical Storm, Earthquake Disease / Pandemic Technological Failure or Human-caused Accident
Dam Failure & Nuclear Plant Hazards Airport Hazards Train Derailment Transportation & Infrastructure* Accidents, Utility Disruptions, Industrial Site Hazards, Hazardous Material Incidents, Biological, Chemical & Radiological Incidents, Fire, Supply-Chain Disruptions
F
G
H
F
G
H
A B
I J K
C D
Human-caused Assault / Attack
Terrorism & Civil Disturbance Cyber-Attacks (data & infrastructure) Armed Attack, Shooter Incident Contaminating Drinking Water Arson 192
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
E F
RESILIENCY
A York County Emergency Operations Plan, 2019
The City's Emergency Response Center (ERC) works closely with the
York County leads the initiative to periodically review and update this
County's OEM. The York County Emergency Operations and Public
multi-jurisdiction plan. Participation and feedback are solicited from
Safety Communications Center is equipped with state-of-the-art
public and private agencies across the County.
The York County
technology to assist in information gathering, assessment, and public
Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is charged with implementing
notification. Sirens across the County are activated for a three-minute-
the Emergency Operations Plan through coordination with all County
test the second Wednesday of each quarter to ensure sirens work
departments, agencies, hospitals, utilities, school districts, special
properly. Sirens are activated in emergency situations, such as a tornado
purpose districts, the Catawba Indian Nation, municipalities and other
warning or an incident at the Catawba Nuclear Station (see letter I).
public and/or private entities. The OEM works closely with federal and
Emergency information is broadcast on local television and radio stations.
state agencies including the North Carolina Department of Public Safety (NCDPS) and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division
B City of Rock Hill Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP), July 2020
(SCEMD). This Plan includes procedures and policies to address natural
The COOP was recently revised given the lessons learned from sustaining
and human-caused incidents. The following plans are appendices -
operations during COVID-19. As described in the Community Facilities
Radiological Emergency Plan
element, the COOP details the key activities that each City Department
Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
must continue to function during and after a disaster.
Debris Management Plan Mass Casualty Plan Mass Fatality Plan Animal Response Plan The Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan includes specific City of Rock Hill goals and objectives, to protect public health and safety, promote a sustainable economy, protect the environment, and increase public preparedness for disasters. The Mitigation Planning Committee
C City of Rock Hill Hometown Security Plan This plan establishes protocols for minimizing the effects of disasters and includes an Emergency Action Plan and a Defense Security Plan. The City's Hometown Security Division leads the development and implementation of these plans and related programs.
D City of Rock Hill Strategic Plan
The City's Strategic Plan is structured around three core strategic
identified, analyzed, and prioritized all goals and objectives based on hazard
initiatives - serving, engaging, and growing. Thus it considers the current
vulnerability, historical occurrence of the hazard, cost effectiveness and
and future state of the City in each of these initiatives. The goals and
compliance with National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The next
objectives are based on community involvement, and in part help address
review and update of the Plan is scheduled for 2022.
our community's resiliency and sustainability. VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
193
RESILIENCY
E City Ordinances Both the City's Code of Ordinances and Zoning Ordinance include regulations that safeguard public health, safety, and general welfare of the community, and as such, they encompass many topics related our community's resiliency. Some of these regulations are directed at preparedness, response and recovery, but most are focused on prevention and mitigation. For example, riparian buffers are required around bodies of water and wetlands, and the land surrounding the airport has a designated overlay district to limit incompatible development. Not intended to be a comprehensive list, but rather a cross-reference list to major topics related to resiliency, is noted here -
Building Regulations & Standards
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 10 Zoning Ordiance, Sections 6 - 9, Community Design, Construction, Development, Site and Building Standards Flood Damage Prevention, Flood Hazard Areas & Stormwater Management
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 10, Article VII, Flood Damage Prevention Zoning Ordinance, Section 7.2.2 Flood Hazard Areas Zoning Ordinance, Section 8.4 Riparian Buffer Standards Code of Ordinances, Chapter 29, Article V, Stormwater Management Zoning Ordinance, Section 7.2.1. Stormwater Management Utilities
Airport Protection Measures
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 29, Article IV, Drought Response
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 4, Article III Hazard Protection Code of Ordiances, Chapter 4, Article IV Regulations Zoning Ordinance, Section 3.6, Airport Overlay District Emergency Services & Preparedness
F Stormwater Management & Erosion Control Design Manual provides details
for new development to curb erosion and provides engineering guidance for stormwater management.
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 15 Fire Prevention and Protection
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 16 Public Safety
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 24 Railroads
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 25 Zoning
Code of Ordiances, Chapter 31 Zoning Ordinance, Sections 3 - 5, Districts and Permitted Uses
194
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
G Stormwater Master Plan Study was performed within the Manchester, Dutchman, Hidden, Wildcat, and Taylors Creek basins to identify potential flood-prone areas outside of the FEMA flood zones. As a result of this Study, a number of both major projects and neighborhood projects were identified and are included in the City's Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Additionally, the City modified its approach to riparian buffers, and treats these flood-prone areas the same as FEMA floodplains.
RESILIENCY
MAP 11.1 FLOOD RISK ANALYSIS BY PARCEL
$
Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development, FEMA
If you own property within the 100-year floodplain and are in the City limits, do you have flood insurance? The City's
Community Rating System (CRS) is a Class 7, which may mean up to a 30% discount for citizens with flood insurance. Check with
77
your insurance provider. Learn more here here..
21
161
901 5
322
5 122
BYP
21 901
5 121 21
Parcels 77 72
100-Year Floodplain Water Bodies Planning Area Boundary
3 Miles
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
195
RESILIENCY
H International Building Code Series
Rock Hill has adopted by ordinance the state-approved versions of the International Building Code series.
J Rock Hill - York County Airport (UZA): Emergency Operations Security Planning Guidelines
This currently includes the
The airport's plan is a comprehensive plan to guide officials and personnel
2018 International Building Code, International Residential Code, Fire
to respond and address an emergency or disaster situation. This plan
Code, Fuel Gas Code, Mechanical Code, Existing Building Code, and
was developed using best practices as provided by FEMA and the South
Property Maintenance Code; the 2017 National Electrical Code, and
Carolina Aviation Association. Sections of the plan directly align with
the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code. This series includes
each of the four hazard mitigation phases - preparedness, response,
regulations to protect the public health, safety, and general welfare by
recovery, and mitigation. Various types of hazards are assessed as
regulating and controlling the design, construction, quality of materials,
well as the capability to cope with potential issues. The plan identifies
and maintenance of all buildings, structures, and certain equipment.
the necessary action and fiscal requirements needed to attain these capabilities.
Dam Safety & Catawba Nuclear Station Preparedness
I Duke Energy operates the Catawba Nuclear Station and is responsible
Norfolk Southern Railroad Safety
for safety and preparedness. Duke provides several communications
Similar to the Nuclear Station, Norfolk Southern is charged with safety
to residents and other stakeholders regarding nuclear emergency
programs related to rail operations. Norfolk Southern works with
preparedness, as well as high water and dam safety tips. More specifically,
community first responders to prepare and safely address potential rail
in the event of a major incident at the Catawba Nuclear Station and/or
incidents. As part of this training program, Norfolk Southern provides an
high water conditions, Duke Energy would immediately notify federal,
app for first responders, and provides an Emergency Response Planning
state, and local authorities of a problem at the station. York County
Guide.
would coordinate communication between the Catawba Nuclear Station and the South Carolina State Warning Point about any emergency that would affect the County, and would activate the emergency outdoor warning sirens if necessary. Citizens living in the Emergency Planning Zone (within 10 miles of the power plant) are mailed guides annually - 2021 Catawba Nuclear Station Emergency Preparedness Information & Guide.
196
K
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
RESILIENCY
OTHER RESILIENCY ISSUES Two major trends are expected to make resiliency more challenging in the future - continued population growth and development pressures (as noted in the Population element), and climate change. The 2018 National Climate Assessment predicts more severe weather, temperature increases, and more frequent wildfire and drought incidents in the southeast. The following highlights the implications that these trends will have on our community. INFRASTRUCTURE RESILIENCY
HEALTH RESILIENCY
Communication lines, utilities, roads, and bridges are vital to our every day
Compared to other areas across the nation, our milder climate makes our
activities. Our ability to access and to be accessible is paramount at all times,
community a very pleasant and desirable place to live. Unfortunately, that is true
but when disaster strikes, it is critical. As noted in the Housing, Transportation,
for insects too, particularly mosquitoes that transmit diseases. More people,
and Community Facilities elements, many of our built structures are aging,
warmer temperatures, and longer active seasons add up to a higher risk of
and older structures are more susceptible to disasters. As weather patterns
disease and illness. Additionally, heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke, can
become more extreme, the risk of infrastructure failures rises. Infrastructure
increase demands on medical facilities and impact work-related productivity.
failures can impact police and first responders services, and can cause economic hardship.
COMMUNITY RESILIENCY IN ACTION Led by the City of Rock Hill and with the support of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and a partnership with Piedmont Medical Center and several other local agencies and groups, the Rock Hill - Piedmont Medical Vaccination Center was established in 2021 to administer the COVID-19 Vaccine. Staffed by mostly volunteers (1,600 people), the clinic averaged more than 900 visitors a day, and administered more than 50,000 vaccines between February and October 2021.
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
197
RESILIENCY
ENERGY RESILIENCY The Climate Assessment asserts that the southeast will experience the highest costs in the country
BEAT THE HEAT Even if you are not
resulting from increased electricity demands as temperatures rise. The relative low cost of utilities,
a Duke Energy customer, Duke offers
such as electricity, gas, and water often make conservation practices and cultivating alternative
usage - typically the highest portion of
energy sources a low priority. While solar energy has grown in the southeast, green building standards and conservation practices tend to lag behind other parts of the country.
energy saving tips for air conditioning household utility costs during summer months. Check it out here.
FOOD SYSTEMS RESILIENCY
90%
OF THE FOOD CONSUMED IS IMPORTED
BUY LOCAL South Carolinians buy annually $11
As highlighted in the Public Health element, a good diet is essential to quality
billion of food, with more than 90% sourced outside
of life. If resources, (including water, labor, and nutrient-rich soils), are
the state. Buying local could increase SC producers’ revenue to $1.2 billion annually. Source: SC Department of Agriculture, Certified SC Grown
more scarce and/or more costly, then agricultural yields can be lower and/ or cost more to produce. Climate change may also cause a shift in the types of crops and/or livestock that have been historically cultivated in the area.
ECONOMIC RESILIENCY All of the above resiliency challenges can impact our local economy. For example, COVID-19 has put stress on private companies and public organizations, locally and nationwide. The full implications of the disruptions to the economy will not be known for years.
198
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
"If businesses are able to recover, the local economy is able to come back. It's so critical." - Bill Munro, Owner of Munro, Inc.
Bill Munro, a small business owner, was surprised that his company's emergency plan was outdated and did not hold-up when Hurricane Rita hit his Texas community. Bill attests to the importance of maintaining a plan and utilizing the Ready.gov/business site. This online repository provides free access to tools, guides, and resources specifically for businesses owners and managers. Click here here.
RESILIENCY
ADDITIONAL TOOLS & RESOURCES Like many of the Elements of the Existing Conditions Report, numerous plans, guides, tools, and other resources exist on the topic of resiliency and hazard mitigation planning. The following is not intended to be a comprehensive list, but rather a starting point from which additional support and tools can be obtained. TABLE 11.3 FEDERAL INITIATIVES
TOPIC / ORGANIZATION
ONLINE RESOURCES
FEMA Continuity Resource Toolkit
https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/national-preparedness/continuity/toolkit
FEMA Resilience Analysis & Planning Tool (RAPT)
https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/resilience-analysis-and-planning-tool
FEMA Planning Guides
https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/national-preparedness/plan
National Preparedness
https://www.ready.gov/
Comprehensive Preparedness Guide (CPG) 201
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-07/supply-chain-resilience-guide.pdf
Supply Chain Resilience Guide
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-07/supply-chain-resilience-guide.pdf
USGS Water Alerts
https://maps.waterdata.usgs.gov/mapper/wateralert/
FEMA Flood Map Service Center
https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home
FEMA National Flood Insurance Program
https://www.floodsmart.gov/
Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency
https://www.cisa.gov/critical-infrastructure-sectors
CDC's Center for Preparedness & Response
https://www.cdc.gov/cpr/index.htm https://www.cdc.gov/prepyourhealth/index.htm https://www.cdc.gov/cpr/readiness/index.htm
TABLE 11.4 STATE & REGIONAL INITIATIVES
TOPIC / ORGANIZATION
ONLINE RESOURCES
South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD)
https://www.scemd.org/prepare/your-emergency-plan/ Mitigation - https://scemd.org/recover/mitigation/ including topics: Family Disaster Planning Family Emergency Kit Preparing Your Pets for Emergencies Citizens with Functional Needs Emergency Preparedness for Kids Report a Power Outage
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC)
https://scdhec.gov/disaster-preparedness
South Carolina State Climatology Office
https://www.dnr.sc.gov/climate/sco/ClimateData/countyData/county_york.php
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
199
RESILIENCY
TABLE 11.5 YORK COUNTY INITIATIVES
TOPIC / ORGANIZATION
ONLINE RESOURCES
York County Floodplain Management
https://www.yorkcountygov.com/458/Floodplain-Management
Floodplain Management FAQs
https://www.yorkcountygov.com/faq.aspx?qid=410
Flood Map Viewer
https://maps.yorkcountygov.com/gvh5/index.html?Viewer=DFIRM_Viewer
TABLE 11.6 ROCK HILL INITIATIVES
TOPIC / ORGANIZATION
ONLINE RESOURCES https://www.cityofrockhill.com/home/showpublisheddocument/24993/637140088071300000
Floodplain Information for Homeowners & other related information
https://www.cityofrockhill.com/departments/planning-and-development/development-plan-review/ infrastructure-engineering-plans/stormwater-erosion-control/flood-plain-and-flood-zone-information
READY.gov Ready is a National public service campaign that educates and empowers Americans to prepare, respond, and mitigate emergencies of all types.
For Residents 9 9 9 9
200
Make a Plan Build a Kit Prepare for Disasters Teach Kids about Preparedness
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
For Business Owners 9 9 9 9
Make a Plan Build a Kit Prepare for Disasters Practice the Plan
SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
PRIORITY INVESTMENT
PRIORITY INVESTMENT In order to preserve and enhance the quality of life throughout South Carolina
SHOW ME THE MONEY
through better planning and coordination of public infrastructure decisions,
the City's Financial Transparency
the General Assembly passed the Priority Investment Act (PIA) in 2007. The PIA added the priority investment element to the Comprehensive Plan and requires the following: •
an inventory and analysis of funding sources for public infrastructure and facilities,
•
a 10-year forecast of infrastructure and facility projects for which the funds will be used,
•
a basic level of inter-agency coordination and collaboration, and
•
consistency among allied planning documents.
The City of Rock Hill has a well-defined and transparent budget process described in full detail in the City's annual Budget document. The Budget document includes the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and the Strategic Plan. The first two PIA requirements mentioned above are detailed in the City's CIP.
What is the budget process? The City of Rock Hill uses a performance-based budgeting approach and a two-year budgeting process to clearly demonstrate how financial decisions in one year affect the future.
Budget Workshop Depart's draft expenditure requests
Finance drafts estimated revenues
Evaluation & assessment Draft budget presented to Council
YEARLY BUDGET UPDATE
EVERY 3-YRS STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE
EVERY 5-YRS COMP PLAN REVIEW/ UPDATE
Since the Budget and CIP are ever-changing, it is recommended to reference these source documents for details and the most current information.
Formulate draft budget
The following pages provide a summary of the funding sources and the project forecast information per the CIP for FY2021, the most current at the time of this report. The vision portion of the
Adoption process
Comprehensive Plan includes how this project forecast aligns with the City's Core Values and recommends a path forward. Other allied
How are we currently tracking? Check it out here!
plans include: • • •
Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) City department master plans
FINANCIAL DASHBOARD
PERFORMANCE DASHBOARD
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
203
PRIORITY INVESTMENT
SUMMARY OF REVENUE SOURCES A brief summary of the various types of revenue sources are provided in Table 12.1; for additional details reference the Budget document. Table 12.2 is the forecast of these revenue sources per the CIP. Aside from the MCIP Bond (about 36% of funding sources), the other major sources of revenue for the City are Revenue Bonds (about 22%), tax increment financing bond (about 14%), and the State Revolving Fund (about 11%).
TABLE 12.1 LIST OF FUNDING SOURCES & DEFINITIONS
DEFINITION Non-Enterprise Funds
DEFINITION Bonds
General Fund
Revenue predominately from property taxes, charges for services, licenses and permits.
Enterprise Fund
Proceeds from land sales used to support economic development.
Local Transit Fund
Sources from federal transit grants, private partnerships and City contributions fund the operations of MyRide.
Local Accommodations & Hospitality Tax
Revenue from 3% local accommodations tax on lodging and 2% local hospitality tax on food and beverage.
Tax Increment Financing (TIF)
Revenue from taxes used to pay for capital improvements in the three TIF districts. See the Economic Development element for details.
Parking Fund
Revenues collected from deck & on-street parking sales to operate and maintain the parking system.
Enterprise Funds
Utility Revenue Bonds
Debt obligation for the expansion of utility facilities.
TIF Bonds
Debt obligation for funding capital improvement projects within the district.
General Obligation Bonds
Voter approved debt for the purpose of large capital projects.
Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs)
Smaller, short-term financing for capital projects.
Multi-County Industrial Park (MCIP) Bonds
Debt obligation for funding capital projects to be repaid from fees assessed in the multi-county industrial park district.
Assessment Bonds
Debt obligation for funding capital projects to be repaid by assessments in municipal improvement districts.
Other Sources
State Revolving Fund Loans
Managed by SC DHEC this fund program provides low-interest rate loans for building and maintenance facility projects.
Capital Lease
Fixed-term lease similar to a loan agreement for purchasing a capital asset on installment.
Grants
Lump-sum funding secured for specific one-time projects. The City secures grants from public agencies and private organizations.
Public-Private Partnerships
Agreements to finance, build and/or operate capital projects.
Electric Fund Stormwater Fund Water Fund
Funds used to operate and maintain the City's utility systems, any remaining funds are typically used to pay debt service on existing utility bonds.
Wastewater Fund
Water Impact Fee Fund Wastewater Impact Fee Fund
204
C-Funds RFATS Guideshare
Impact Fees
Fire Impact Fee Fund
Transportation Revenue Sources
Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) Financial payments made by a developer to pay for all or a portion of cost to provide services to new development.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
Congestion Management & Air Quality (CMAQ) Improvement Funds Pennies For Progress
See the Transportation element for definitions and details.
PRIORITY INVESTMENT
TABLE 12.2 REVENUE SUMMARY TABLE
Source: City of Rock Hill Capital Improvement Plan
Funding Sources Capital Equipment Lease CMAQ Reimbursements Economic Development Fund Electric Revenue Federal Funding General Fund GO Bonds Hospitality Tax Funds Impact Fees MCIP Bond Parking Revenue Private Sponsorship Reimbursement - Grants Revenue Bonds Riverwalk Assessment Bond State Funds State Revolving Fund Stormwater Revenue Tax Increment Financing Bond Transit Fund Unfunded Wastewater Revenue Water Revenue York County Total
FY2021 $1,952,000 $1,038,319 $1,500,000 $2,849,813 $601,070 $2,615,090 $1,700,000 $100,000 $$130,000,000 $$1,384,031 $1,555,150 $33,661,098 $1,050,000 $579,856 $61,812,976 $493,000 $27,052,272 $10,000 $199,701 $3,518,730 $2,028,885 $814,928 $276,516,919
FY2022 $3,917,350 $1,653,213 $$2,768,687 $1,115,158 $2,469,866 $$143,500 $$75,000,000 $60,000 $$103,477 $86,933,220 $$459,408 $$585,000 $28,450,000 $10,000 $60,000 $4,090,140 $2,173,649 $929,705 $210,922,372
FY2023 $1,233,000 $1,614,787 $$2,963,892 $228,030 $3,004,668 $$150,000 $$$100,000 $205,000 $209,483 $3,300,000 $1,154,000 $417,335 $$661,480 $24,007,340 $42,000 $3,310,000 $2,971,226 $2,315,000 $839,668 $48,726,908
FY2024 $435,000 $$$3,063,888 $835,643 $2,883,746 $$150,000 $600,000 $$100,000 $$$$$472,691 $$490,000 $$42,000 $1,800,000 $1,466,900 $2,500,000 $863,746 $15,703,613
FY2025 $1,494,550 $$$3,074,787 $240,900 $2,562,025 $2,500,000 $150,000 $$$100,000 $$$$ $4,050 $$450,000 $$42,000 $1,500,000 $1,400,000 $2,800,000 $702,025 $17,020,337
Total $9,031,900 $4,306,319 $1,500,000 $14,721,067 $3,020,800 $13,535,394 $4,200,000 $693,500 $600,000 $205,000,000 $360,000 $1,589,031 $1,868,110 $123,894,318 $2,204,000 $1,933,340 $61,812,976 $2,679,480 $79,509,612 $146,000 $6,869,701 $13,446,996 $11,817,534 $4,150,071 $568,890,149
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
205
PRIORITY INVESTMENT
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT NEEDS After projecting how much money will be available each fiscal year for capital projects from each of the revenue sources, the City identifies and prioritizes its capital needs. These needs are ever-changing due to shifting priorities, unexpected events, changes in technology, and deviations from projected revenue. For this reason, the CIP is updated on an annual basis and it is best to reference it directly here. At the time of writing this Plan, the FY21 Budget document included a five-year schedule of capital improvements (ten-year where applicable) as summarized here in Tables 12.3 and 12.4. TABLE 12.3 GENERAL FUND & ENTERPRISE FUNDS - PROJECT ALLOCATIONS BY FOCUS AREA Source: City of Rock Hill Capital Improvement Plan
Focus Area
FY2021
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
FY2025
Total
FY2026 - FY2030
Knowledge Park
$29,763,722
$32,652,050
$26,338,090
$160,000
$160,000
$89,073,862
-
Riverwalk Panthers Fire PRT General Services Airport Transit Miscellaneous Stormwater Electric Water Wastewater
$2,413,378 $150,000,000 $160,000 $1,957,200 $971,430 $50,000 $5,315,688 $5,341,432 $1,510,000 $17,273,527 $57,918,730 $272,675,107
$689,515 $75,000,000 $203,500 $2,490,000 $1,194,620 $50,000 $385,000 $1,800,000 $5,075,989 $85,945,660 $205,486,334
$1,154,000 $1,560,000 $2,895,000 $756,700 $210,000 $480,000 $5,170,000 $2,315,000 $2,971,226 $43,850,016
$700,000 $210,000 $2,650,000 $1,467,825 $210,000 $490,000 $1,980,000 $2,500,000 $1,466,900 $11,834,725
$2,500,000 $150,000 $2,650,000 $81,000 $210,000 $450,000 $1,980,000 $2,800,000 $1,400,000 $12,381,000
$4,256,893 $225,000,000 $3,200,000 $2,283,500 $12,642,200 $4,471,575 $730,000 $5,315,688 $7,146,432 $12,440,000 $29,964,516 $149,702,516 $546,227,182
$3,025,000 $9,990,000 $15,950,000 $13,475,000 $42,440,000
Total
206
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
PRIORITY INVESTMENT
TABLE 12.4 CAPITAL EQUIPMENT ALLOCATIONS BY FOCUS AREA Source: City of Rock Hill Capital Improvement Plan
Focus Area Fire Police Public Works ITS Stormwater Electric Water Wastewater Total
FY2021 $550,000 $612,000 $1,339,813 $480,000 $397,000 $135,000 $328,000 $3,841,813
FY2022 $824,550 $550,000 $1,812,800 $968,687 $841,000 $439,000 $5,436,037
FY2023
FY2024
$1,150,000 $633,000 $3,093,892 $4,876,892
$550,000 $435,000 $2,883,888 $3,868,888
FY2025 $824,550 $550,000 $670,000 $2,594,787 $4,639,337
Total $1,649,100 $3,350,000 $4,162,800 $10,881,067 $1,321,000 $836,000 $135,000 $328,000 $22,662,967
AGENCY COORDINATION The City continues to strengthen coordination among departments as well as between the City and outside agencies and jurisdictions. Under the PIA, the City must coordinate with adjacent and relevant jurisdictions and agencies before recommending projects for public expenditure. Below is a list
TABLE 12.5 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT GENERAL GOVERNMENT PROJECTS (PROJECTS OVER $500K) Source: City of Rock Hill Capital Improvement Plan
Focus Area
Projects
of those jurisdictions and agencies provided the opportunity to be involved in the development of the Rock Hill
Knowledge Park
Charlotte Avenue Bridge Repairs, Dave Lyle Pedestrian Bridge, Traffic Management System, Infrastructure, Parking Decks
Comprehensive Plan Update -
Riverwalk Panthers Fire PRT General Services
Manchester Creek Bridge Replacement, Faith Boulevard Mast Arms
•
York County
Site Infrastructure
•
Rock Hill School District Three
•
Rock Hill-Fort Mill Area
Airport
Terminal Expansion, Drainage Remediation, Glideslope Replacement, Taxiway J Rehabilitation, Localizer Replacement
Transit Miscellaneous
Bus Shelters
Station 7 Land Acquisition, Engineering & Construction Trails & Greenways System, Armory Park Splashpad & Improvements
Transportation Study (RFATS)
General & County Paving Funds, Sidewalk Improvements
Project Aspen, Celanese Road/India Hook Improvements
•
Catawba Regional Council of Governments
•
S.C. Department of Health & Environmental Control
•
S.C. Department of Transportation
VOLUME I - EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
207
PRIORITY INVESTMENT
CAPITAL FUNDING GAP ANALYSIS Every year during the development of the CIP and annual budget, the City has the difficult task of prioritizing all of the proposed projects and determining which projects get funded
SHORT ON FUNDS?
based on available revenues. Since there are always more projects than there is available revenue, the City must differentiate between projects that are essential and projects that would be “nice to have". Citizen and customer input, as well as anticipated economic development growth projections, play a large role in project prioritization.
Additional revenue sources are available to the City for funding large-scale planning initiatives or capital improvements. Some of these sources require action by City Council in accordance with the Code of Laws of South Carolina as amended. Such funds sources may include (each option would need further review for limitations and conditions):
208
•
Real Estate Transfer Fees
•
State Infrastructure Bank
•
Developer In-Kind Contributions
•
Impact Fees (for other public facilities)
•
Other Local Sales Tax Options
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE - ROCK HILL 2030
If there is still a funding gap after the City finalizes its list of essential projects, then the City must find ways to increase its funding levels. Options that the City may pursue to accomplish this include: •
Allocating a greater portion of a revenue source to capital projects
•
Tapping into available, yet not currently utilized funding sources (see left side bar)
•
Increasing taxes
•
Increasing rates and fees
•
Obtaining voter-approved bond referendums to increase debt capacity TABLE 12.6 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT UNFUNDED GENERAL GOVERNMENT PROJECTS (OVER $500K) Source: City of Rock Hill Capital Improvement Plan
Focus Area Fire Police PRT General Services Airport Electric Water & Wastewater Public Works Miscellaneous
Projects New administration building for the Fire Department Training Center New Law Center Duke Power Lake Park, next regional park Paving funds, sidewalk improvements, parking structures Runway and taxiway extension Primary line extensions for new growth Water Filter Plant land acquisition Stream restoration master plan study New library