Aiken residents have expressed mixed feelings about the proposed zoning changes currently under review by the city and county officials in 2025. The existing zoning ordinance, dating back to 1999, is widely considered outdated with loopholes affecting planned residential and commercial zones. The City of Aiken is working on a comprehensive rewrite of this ordinance to address such issues, including better regulation of housing density, traffic impact, and preservation of natural spaces.
Public sentiment, especially from long-term residents near proposed developments, shows strong concerns about increased housing density, traffic congestion, and potential negative effects on property values and quality of life. Comments made during Planning Commission hearings emphasize distrust when developers increase housing units despite community requests for fewer homes. Traffic safety and infrastructure impacts are also major concerns, with requests for thorough traffic studies before approval.
Several commissioners and residents advocate for more restrictive zoning overlays to prevent incompatible developments like excessive commercial use or poorly planned high-density subdivisions. Transparency and better public input have become focal points in discussions, as earlier phases saw limited initial community consultation.
Overall, Aiken is in a transitional phase, balancing growth with preservation. The city aims to update zoning to promote compatible development, protect historic and natural areas, and improve infrastructure planning. Residents are engaged but cautious, demanding that growth not compromise the character and safety of established neighborhoods.
SOURCES
[1](https://citizenportal.ai/articles/5562310/Aiken-City/Aiken-County/South-Carolina/City-Council-Approves-Multiple-Annexations-and-Zoning-Changes-for-Residential-Areas)
[2](https://aikenchronicles.com/2025/01/11/local-politics-and-planning-in-2025/)
[3](https://aikenchronicles.com/2024/02/16/dissent-and-confusion-in-aikens-land-planning-process/)
[4](https://scapa.org/berkeleycounty-2/)
[5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zM-bxoQ-MU)
