FLORENCE — The owner of a longtime television, appliance and furniture store in Florence plans to go back into business in a new downtown building next door to his original location.
James Byrd, who operated Byrd’s TV from 1959 to 2006, plans to build a new store at 231 N. McQueen St. after demolishing a fire-damaged warehouse on the property.
On Wednesday, the City of Florence Design Review Board unanimously approved the construction, which Byrd said will improve the area around the intersection of McQueen and Darlington.
“I think everybody else in the area should do the same thing, really,” he said.
Byrd said his business will focus on TV repair and commercial sound systems, although he hasn’t yet settled on a name for the store.
Design Review Board members praised Byrd for working with city staff to build his new business.
“We’re just so glad to see someone is doing something positive (in that area),” board member Nathaniel Mitchell told Byrd. “We commend you.”
The proposed construction had to go before the board because it would take place within the city’s Downtown Central District. Byrd had Florence County’s approval for building a new store, but learned that his property sits on the western edge of the downtown district and is therefore subject to the city board’s review.
Byrd, therefore, had to modify his plans to bring the store closer to the front property line, which borders McQueen Street.
A rear parking lot will be accessible by a driveway serving the new building and former Byrd’s TV building — now a beauty supply store. Both properties are owned by Byrd, who leases to the beauty supply business.
Byrd also will work with city planners to ensure the proposed one-story brick building will meet the city’s design guidelines for signage, storefront appearance and awnings.
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