CAYCE, S.C. – A once-abandoned school site in the heart of Cayce is being transformed into a vibrant new neighborhood. Hattie’s Crossing, a 12-home infill development, is now under construction on the former grounds of Cayce Grammar School.
The project is led by Columbia developers Mark James and Tyler Baldwin Jr. of Cypress Development Partners, with marketing by The Wheeler Group powered by Coldwell Banker Realty.
Located between Lexington Avenue, Third, Eighth, and Poplar Streets, Hattie’s Crossing will feature one- and two-story single-family homes in four thoughtfully designed models. Each home will include three bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, and measure between 1,400 and 1,600 square feet, all situated on private lots of approximately 6,000 square feet. Prices will range from $379,000 to $399,000.
“Full credit goes to the developer for turning a deteriorating structure in a prime location into a thoughtfully planned residential community,” said Zack Wheeler, a partner in The Wheeler Group. “They’ve created modern homes that remain attainable in today’s market.”
Six homes will face Poplar Street and six will face Lexington Avenue. A shared alley behind the homes will connect Third and Eighth Streets, providing private access and parking. Sidewalks and front porches are key features designed to foster a strong sense of community.
The homes were designed by Allison Ramsey Architects of Beaufort, the same firm behind the St. Anns Alley neighborhood in West Columbia. Fulfilled Engineering of West Columbia is handling civil engineering, and Haven Homes of Irmo is the builder.
Honoring Local History
The name Hattie’s Crossing honors Hattie Derrenbacher, who founded the first school in Cayce in 1913. She taught nine students in her home before becoming a teacher at the city’s first public school. The original Cayce Grammar School, which later occupied the site, was closed in 1976 and had since fallen into disrepair before being demolished for the project.
“For many years, Cayce Grammar School stood as a landmark in this community,” said Mark James. “We are proud to recognize Hattie Derrenbacher’s contribution through the name of this development.”
A Community Asset
The development has drawn praise from city leaders and residents alike.
“I’m truly grateful to see Hattie’s Crossing taking shape,” said Byron Thomas, Cayce City Council member. “This project transforms a long-dormant, non-tax-paying property into a valuable source of tax revenue and provides much-needed housing.”
Tim James, CEO of the Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce, added, “As a former student of Cayce Grammar School, it makes me proud to see this property evolve into beautiful homes. The developers did a great job honoring the legacy of this site.”
Lexington School District Two Superintendent Dr. Brenda Hafner also expressed her appreciation for the tribute to Derrenbacher.
“She dedicated her life to educating the children of Cayce. This is a fitting tribute to her legacy.”
The development team behind Hattie’s Crossing also played a major role in St. Anns Alley, a successful urban infill project in West Columbia.
Construction on all 12 homes is underway and is expected to wrap up by this fall. For more information about home models, layouts, and availability, visit www.hattiescrossing.com.
