NORTH AUGUSTA, SC. () – North Augusta City Council held its second reading on Monday on Ordinance 2025-05, but others came out worried about the traffic these new developments could bring.

The council paused issuing permits and approvals for new multifamily developments, like apartments and subdivisions.

It was assured that this will not affect apartments that are part of planned developments like the Hive, Riverside Village, and The Parker since they have been approved. However, it will affect future standalone apartment complexes and multifamily dwellings, allowing them to have a plan to see what fits best into North Augusta.

But people who came out for the meeting are more worried about traffic, which these developments like the Hive could bring to an already congested area.

“Right now, if you’re coming off old plantation road trying to get down to Martintown road, it looks like you’re playing frogger,” said George Stickler, North Augusta Resident. “The traffic coming up the hill to the gas station coming off I20, and they’re doing probably 50,55 miles an hour, and then once they come around the corner by Hammond pine going towards I20, it’s like a free for all”

They had their first vote on Ordinance 2025-08 to approve the general development plan for the Hive on the east side of West Martintown Road between Knobcone Avenue and I 20.

“You’re right, we are aware there’s some challenges we’re going to have to address,” said Mayor Briton Williams, North Augusta.

The mayor said there are plans to have a light at Knobcone Road to help with traffic flow. People I spoke to hope they continue listening to the community members’ concerns.

“I hope that they keep listening to the people on the West side of Martintown road and take that into consideration for when they start timing the lights,” said Stickler.

The second reading for the commercial development on the east side of West Martintown Road will be at the next council meeting.