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 the City of Sumter Downtown Development Office at (803) 436-2635.
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 Bartlette Street 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 Bartlette Street 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 insure 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.
Complete details of the program can be downloaded or contact the City of Sumter Downtown Development Office at (803) 436-2635.
The Façade grant program is available to business and/or building owners that are located in the designated Façade Grant area of the City of Sumter.
Façade 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. Façade grant money may not be used for interior renovations or roof repair.
This is a competitive grant program with applications accepted throughout the year and awarded as funds become available for eligible projects. You may download the program details and application or by contacting Leigh Newman, City of Sumter Downtown Development Coordinator at (803) 436-2635.