Columbia's GATHER COLA: A Historic and Economic Game-Changer in the BullStreet District
- CUBNSC
- Feb 10
- 3 min read
By Javar Juarez (CUBNSC) Columbia, SC - Exciting changes are coming to the BullStreet District as Columbia prepares to welcome its first-ever food hall. GATHER COLA, an open-air dining and community hub, is officially underway, promising to be a vibrant centerpiece of the city’s largest redevelopment project. The initiative, led by Cason Development Group in partnership with Four Oaks Property Group and Hughes Development Corp., will bring together diverse culinary experiences, event spaces, and business opportunities, making it a must-visit destination when it opens in late 2025.
Gather COLA: A Concept Rooted in Success
Modeled after the acclaimed GATHER GVL in Greenville—recognized as the 5th Best Food Hall in America by USA Today—GATHER COLA will transform the intersection of Sabal and Freed Streets into a thriving social space. The venue will feature:
Nine restaurant and food vendor spaces showcasing local and international cuisine.
Two bar spaces, including a rooftop bar offering scenic views.
A private event space for gatherings and celebrations.
Pop-up retail spaces for micro-businesses and emerging entrepreneurs.
An outdoor entertainment area for live performances and community events.
8,500 square feet of office space designed for flexible business use.
Robert Hughes, president and CEO of Hughes Development Corp., emphasized the food hall’s significance, stating, “GATHER COLA will be the ultimate gathering spot for families and friends – the perfect place for co-workers to eat when everyone wants something different and the perfect place for friends and families to get together on nights and weekends.”
Economic Growth and Business Opportunity
Beyond its role as a culinary hub, GATHER COLA is set to become an economic catalyst for Columbia. The project will generate new jobs, provide a platform for small businesses, and attract tourism dollars to the city. By integrating pop-up retail spaces, the development fosters an inclusive business environment where local entrepreneurs and artisans can showcase their products.
With Columbia’s real estate and business sectors experiencing steady growth, this food hall will serve as a launchpad for new ventures while enhancing the city’s appeal as a dynamic destination. Businesses and vendors interested in joining the movement are encouraged to contact Holly Buxton with Cason Development Group at 803-550-3145.
Honoring the Past: The Historic Significance of BullStreet
GATHER COLA’s location within the BullStreet District adds an additional layer of historic and cultural importance. The site was once home to the South Carolina State Hospital, established in 1821 as one of the first mental health institutions in the United States. Its iconic brick wards and sprawling gardens stood as landmarks of Columbia’s past, reflecting the evolving philosophies of mental healthcare over nearly two centuries.
The hospital’s history spans the Civil War, two World Wars, and numerous social and scientific advancements. The redevelopment of this space preserves its legacy while ushering in a new era of innovation and inclusivity. Hughes Development, which acquired the campus in 2010, has worked alongside Historic Columbia to ensure that preservation remains at the forefront of BullStreet’s transformation.
A Vision for the Future
Spanning 181 acres, the BullStreet District is Columbia’s largest urban redevelopment project, blending history with modern amenities. The district already boasts key attractions such as Segra Park, The Bakery at BullStreet, and the newly repurposed Babcock Building apartments. With GATHER COLA joining the mix, BullStreet is poised to become one of the most dynamic live-work-play communities in the Southeast.
By integrating historic preservation with contemporary urban development, Columbia is making a bold statement: the city values its past while embracing the future. As GATHER COLA takes shape, it will not only enhance the social and economic fabric of Columbia but also serve as a symbol of progress, innovation, and community.
The countdown to late 2025 has begun, and Columbia is ready to gather.
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