2015: A strong year for Kershaw County Economic Development

January 27, 2016

Media Contact 803.425.7685
Lauren Reeder
Lauren.reeder@kershaw.sc.gov

Kershaw County, SC – The Kershaw County Economic Development Office (KCEDO) is pleased to announce exceptional growth in 2015 and is looking forward to continuing that success in 2016.  The KCEDO worked with several existing industry expansions in 2015 that totaled over $200 million in new capital investment and created over 550 new jobs.  In June, Suominen Nonwovens chose to add a new wet production line at its Bethune plant.   Haier America announced plans in August for a 250,000 square foot building addition and new equipment purchase for its Camden facility.  In December, INVISTA announced their plans to add new nylon polymer and spinning units at their Camden operation.  Other planned expansions include the addition of 100 jobs at the Target Distribution Center to support their new direct-to-consumer fulfilment center.  The estimated annual payroll for the new jobs announced in 2015 is over $19.5 million.

During the year, the KCEDO also completed an Economic Development Product Evaluation of the County’s industrial parks, sites and buildings.  This evaluation led to Kershaw County Council’s approval of the issuance of up to $17 million in bonds for economic development projects.  Specific projects approved include industrial park road improvements; clearing, grubbing and grading of industrial sites; park signage; and shell building construction.  Design work on these improvements has begun and will continue throughout the year.

Other industrial product development initiatives completed in 2015 include:

• Water line extension to Governor’s Hill Industrial Park
• South Carolina Department of Commerce Site Certification of Governor’s Hill Industrial Park and Steeplechase Industrial Park
• Certification of Steeplechase Industrial Park by Duke Energy as a “Food & Beverage Site” and by AT&T as a “Fiber Ready Site”
• Central Carolina Technical College campus expansion

Workforce Development was also an area of focus in 2015.  The County achieved the “Work Ready Community” designation – a national and state initiative to recognize communities actively developing its workforce through Work Keys Testing and certification.  Another successful workforce development effort was the inaugural Industry Showcase, an event that linked school guidance counselors with local industries to promote a better prepared workforce for today’s business needs.

Over $10.5 million in grants was invested in Kershaw County in 2015.  Awarding entities included the Environmental Protection Agency, US Economic Development Administration, Community Development Block Grant Program, SC Rural Infrastructure Authority, SC Coordinating Council for Economic Development, Duke Energy, Fairfield Electric Cooperative, Black River Electric Cooperative, and Central South Carolina Alliance.

QUOTES

“We’ve proven that Kershaw County is indeed Open For Business!  This exceptional growth shows that Kershaw County is a great place to locate and grow an industry.  The entire County Council is committed to making our community better for today and tomorrow.”

– Julian Burns, Kershaw County Council Chair

“2015 – What a Year!  It has been a busy time for us, filled with great announcements and accomplishments, and we plan to keep the momentum going for even more success in 2016.” 

- Peggy McLean, Kershaw County Economic Development Director

“This past year was the result of everyone working together to ensure the continued growth of the County.  Our team is focused on moving forward and improving the lives of our citizens.”

– Vic Carpenter, Kershaw County Administrator

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