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Compromise Leads To Possible Deal For Dreher Sports Facilities

After months of heated debate, Dreher High School is one step closer to expanding its sports facilities.

Columbia, SC (WLTX) - A compromise for new athletic facilities at Dreher High School is on the table. The plan is for five tennis courts, a multipurpose field and increased lighting created a divide between the school community and the neighborhoods that surround it, but the tune of both parties seems to be changing.

"This is not a perfect representation of exactly what's needed there. I think we determined that we are not going to let the perfect be the enemy of the good. This is a good and strong step forward," Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin said.

The city was involved in mediation talks between the neighborhood and school communities.

"It wasn't just a win for the school district or whomever. It was a win for our community. It was a win for our neighbors and most definitely, it was a win for the children that we serve there at Dreher High School," said Cheryl Harris, Chairwoman of the Richland School District Board of Commissioners.

"This is where we need to be," said Fred Easley, President of the Melrose Neighborhood Association. "We've all agreed to continue to sit down and move forward."

The two groups have agreed on a framework for the project. Some items include shutting off lights at 9 p.m., adding trees as a buffer, prohibiting varsity competition, pep bands and sound systems and limiting bleacher height.

There are still steps to be taken before final approval. Mayor Benjamin said he hopes that will be before the end of July. If both sides continue to agree, construction is expected to start in late fall.

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