Façade Grant Program
The revitalization activities in Downtown Sumter have stimulated a great deal of interest and activity in the Central Business District. The streetscape project, renovation to our parking lots and the numerous buildings that have received a facelift through our Facade Grant Program have all served as a catalyst for development by the private sector.
Because of the revitalization efforts, buildings that have been for sale for an extended period of time are now selling and the new owners are providing the necessary renovations to make the properties an attractive asset to the downtown area. To find out more about the economic development opportunities in Downtown Sumter contact Howie Owens, City of Sumter Downtown Development Manager, at (803) 436-2535.
Available Property
Most properties in the downtown area are owned by private parties which handle the sale and leasing of those properties. However, if you need general information regarding size, suitable use and location, you may contact Howie Owens, City of Sumter Downtown Development Manager at (803) 436-2535.
Economic Incentives
Several economic incentive programs are available for new or existing businesses in the Downtown Sumter area. The program boundaries are from Calhoun Street to Oakland Avenue and Sumter Street to Harvin Street.
The City of Sumter, Santee Lynches Regional Development Corporation, and eight area financial institutions have established a Low-Interest Loan Program to encourage development, re-development and general improvement to commercial and residential properties in the Sumter downtown business district. The eligible area is bounded by Calhoun Street south to Oakland Avenue and Sumter Street east to Harvin Street.
Any commercial or residential project in the eligible area qualifies under the program. The main objective of the program is to provide a strong financial incentive for the rehabilitation of the exterior and interior of building structures in downtown Sumter. Another goal is to ensure that the proposed rehabilitation work is of a quality design and is sensitive to the architectural and historical qualities that make our downtown buildings distinctive.
The Facade grant program is available to business and/or building owners that are located in the designated Facade Grant area of the City of Sumter. Complete details of the program can be downloaded or contact by contacting Howie Owens, City of Sumter Downtown Development Manager at (803) 436-2535.
Facade grant renovation can be used on an exterior portion of the building that is visible to the public. This can include the front, back and sides of the building. Facade grant money may not be used for interior renovations or roof repair. This is a competitive grant program with applications accepted once each calendar year during the month of March. Grants are awarded in April. You may download the program details and application or by contacting Howie Owens, City of Sumter Downtown Development Manager at (803) 436-2535.
HUD 108 Loans
Certain qualifying large projects may be eligible for low-interest loans provided by HUD and administered by the City of Sumter. For complete information contact Howie Owens, City of Sumter Downtown Development Manager at (803) 436-2535 or howens@sumtersc.gov.