Forty-seven business, non-profit and government leaders visited Greenville and York County in South Carolina during the past several days to explore best practices in downtown development, civic engagement and entrepreneurship programs as well as investigate how infrastructure investments in sports and recreation has helped each of these two communities enhance economic development and build civic pride.
“Excellent communities learn from their successful peers,” according to Debbie Britt, 2016 chair of the Fayette Chamber. “ We are thrilled with the level of participation and commitment from our leaders to bring Greenville and York County’s best practices to Fayette County.”
Greenville is recognized nationally for its downtown redevelopment. The city’s list of accolades are long including but not limited to “Top 10 Best Places to Live,” “Top 10 Small Cities Where Businesses Thrive” and “Top 10 America’s Greatest Main Streets.” Fayette County leaders were interested in Greenville’s downtown revitalization, the Peace Center, entrepreneur and minority business support programs and Greenville Forward, an initiative similar to Fayette Visioning.
York County, South Carolina is a bedroom county to Charlotte in neighboring North Carolina that has become one of the fastest-growing counties in South Carolina. Like Fayette County, it is known for its high quality of life and its school systems.
With nine municipalities, York County has a diverse, rich cultural heritage. York County has taken steps to insure a sustainable, balanced economy and prides itself on being the most business-friendly county in South Carolina.
Fayette County leaders were interested in its arts council, sports infrastructure and tourism, business innovation centers and Baxter Village, Fort Mill’s mixed use development that is comparable to projects coming on line in Fayette County.
Tuesday, on the return trip to Fayette County, the leaders made a brief stop in Sugar Hill for dinner with their elected leaders and learn about the plans for the new Sugar Hill Greenway.
