The City of Rock Hill is revitalizing its historic textile corridor into the Knowledge Park District, an innovation hub that blends heritage with modern purpose. At its core is The Thread, a key anchor within Storyline, the city’s new pedestrian-friendly linear park.
Positioned between Winthrop University and Downtown Rock Hill, The Thread reimagines over seven acres of the former Baxter Mill site as a vibrant, mixed-use development. In partnership with The Keith Corporation, the project preserves key architectural features while introducing modern design to create a character-rich environment that honors the past and embraces the future. Phase 1 includes 30,000 square feet of destination retail and dining, 150,000 square feet of Class-A creative offices, and The Freight Yard, a new event venue. This mix reflects community input calling for more accessible, family friendly spaces and enhances the district’s cultural and economic appeal. Sustainability is central to the project. Reusing the concrete structure prevented 20 metric tons of embodied carbon emissions, while water-saving measures and passive design strategies boost energy efficiency. Exceeding code standards, The Thread is built for long-term resilience. More than a development, The Thread is a reinvestment in Rock Hill’s identity, demonstrating how adaptive reuse can power community growth and create inclusive, enduring spaces.