Developers planned a mixed-use project in North Myrtle Beach. Where does it stand now?
Reality Check is a new Sun News series holding those in power accountable, shining a light on local issues, and answering readers' essential questions. Have a question or concern we can answer? Email happening with one of the biggest in progress developments in the North Myrtle Beach area?
The Exchange at Sunset Grove , a luxury apartment complex complimented with high-end shopping within walking distance, is a five-building, 123-unit planned complex near the Welcome to North Myrtle Beach sign at 2010 North Myrtle Point Blvd.
Mendel Bell, co-owner of The Exchange at Sunset Grove and Touch Med Spa, one of the shop components for the new development, did not return a request for comment before publication. Co-owner Brian Ammons also could not be reached for comment before publication.
In a previous interview with The Sun News in September 2023, Bell said he was hopeful the project would start vertical construction in January or February 2024.
"It's about high end; it's also about just being unique to the community itself. We're not just focusing on any chains or anything like that," Bell said at the time. "We're focused on unique things and things that North Myrtle Beach doesn't currently have as far as retail goes, whether it be with dining or shopping."
As of April 18, 2024, a construction crew did site work on the cleared property, but vertical construction had yet to begin.
In an email, City of North Myrtle Beach Public Information Officer Lauren Jessie wrote that the project, which received site plan approval on June 14, 2023, also got a land grading permit in August 2023 for "clearing, grading, storm drainage installation, water & sewer installation, streets & curbing" work.
"No further building permits have been pulled to begin vertical construction, but work is underway on the site," Jessie added in her email.
Jessie added that the Exchange at Sunset Grove has vested rights that are good for two years through June 14, 2025, but will extend once the project goes vertical.
