Rock Hill Draft Comp Plan Update Existing Conditions Report

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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TRANSPORTATION

 MAP 5.9 RFATS BOUNDARY Source: RFATS

RFATS Boundary Planning Area City Limits

4 Miles

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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**

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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

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National Historic District

Local Historic District

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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 FIGURE 7.2 OLD TOWN ROCK HILL, SC HISTORIC WALKING TOUR MAP & GUIDE

5

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 MAP 7.3

Building Footprints

Parks & Open Spaces

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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LAND USE

 MAP 10.1 EXISTING LAND USE Source: City of Rock Hill Planning & Development

3 Miles

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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):

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•

Real Estate Transfer Fees

•

State Infrastructure Bank

•

Developer In-Kind Contributions

•

Impact Fees (for other public facilities)

•

Other Local Sales Tax Options

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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