• Original Penny for Progress

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    Original Penny for Progress

    Viewed by many as a hugely successful effort, the original "Penny for Progress" brought plenty of acclaim to Sumter County for two key projects as well as recognition for our ability to stimulate the local economy and improve our quality of life.

    The new $20 million Sumter County Judicial Center is a technological marvel designed to provide the safest possible space in a county that handles a per capital docket on par with Greenville and Columbia.

    The Patriot Park Sportsplex is a $6 million multi-sport facility with sidewalks, walking trails and plenty of wide open space for exercise and family fun. In the Summer of 2017, Sumter County hosted the Dixie Youth Softball World Series, which saw 42 teams coming from 11 states. Patriot Park Pavilion was recently added to the park, which hosts special events and also serves as an outdoor classroom for students interested in science and biology.

    RENOVATIONS, INDUSTRIAL GROWTH AND MORE

    The Sumter County Civic Center received a much-need renovation and continues to hosts a variety of events throughout the year such as the recent 45th annual World Invitational Double Dutch Championship.

    An $8 million water plant has fueled industrial growth and helped bring Continental Tire to Sumter County, which has invested millions and brought hundreds of well-paying jobs.

    The infrastructure at Pocotaligo Industrial Park saw upgrades to water and sewer lines and we also added about 1.5 miles of roadway to the Black River Airport Industrial Park with an eye on investing in economic development.

    As Shaw Air Force Base remains a key asset for the Sumter community and contributes greatly to the economy, land bordering the base or within the existing Military Protection District was purchased to keep it undeveloped and to provide green space for residents. It can also allow for future base expansions.

    Rural fire stations got a big boost from the first Penny for Progress with renovations and upgrades; new stations were added in Cherryvale, Dabbs, Wedgefield and Bethel.

    The Lafayette Diamond project improved the North Main Street and North Lafayette Drive intersection with a new bypass to alleviate heavy traffic and provide a safer environment. 

    And lastly, new sidewalks were added to connect existing neighborhoods and make it safer for schoolchildren while also promoting active lifestyles.