Oakland Mill in Final Phases of Project

June 24, 2013
by Elyssa Parnell Newberry Observer Staff Writer

NEWBERRY - What might seem like a "long time coming" is finally tying up the loose ends for what will soon be Oakland Mill Apartments.

Originally constructed in 1912, Oakland Mill has recently received a historic marker, showing its status as a historic landmark. The mill's last textile user was American Fiber and Finish, who closed operations in 2009.

The Oakland Mill project, which was started in 2009, is expected to be completed in about three weeks. An open house held June 20 gave the public the opportunity to tour the complex and see nine sample floor plans. Before the tours, a short presentation was held about the future of the mill.

"Everything the West family does is a West family business," said Misty West, developer for the Oakland Mill project.

Mayor Foster Senn congratulated the West family on the success of restoring the old building.

"It's a great re-birth of an old building for use of the town," he said.

Senn said Oakland Mill is great for the public-private partnership the city of Newberry has had with the West family throughout the project. The city of Newberry is responsible for the outdoor landscaping, while the Wests have worked hard on the inside of the old mill.

"The mill was known for excellent products, and was competitive everywhere. The same can be said for the future of the building with these apartments," Senn said. "We're proud to bring this to Newberry."

Mike Bedenbaugh, director of Palmetto Trust, said it was amazing to stand inside a finished restoration project.

"It's a place that has a story to tell," he said. "It's a great marriage of the past and the present for the future."

Mike Crapps of First Community Bank in Prosperity said First Community is proud to be the financial partner for Oakland Mill.

"As a bank, we focus all of our work on help local businesses be more successful," he said. "It's a great marriage of a customer and a community success."

Following the speakers, tours were held the rest of the day and throughout the evening. Lori Senn was the interior decorator for the model apartments.

For questions or more information email info@oaklandmill.com or call 276-0182. Those interested can also visit the Oakland Mill website at www.oaklandmill.com or the Facebook page at Oakland Mill Development Group.