Beaufort: Progress on $70 Million Convocation Center at USCB
The University of South Carolina-Beaufort (USCB) is moving forward with plans for a new convocation center at its Bluffton campus. This development follows delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing supply chain issues. Initially proposed in 2019 with an estimated cost of $35 million to $55 million, the project’s price has inflated to approximately $70 million, according to Vice Chancellor for Finance, Beth Patrick.
What’s Happening?
The planned multipurpose facility will be the largest in Beaufort County and is designed to accommodate between 3,500 to 4,000 individuals. The center is aimed at supporting not only university events but also community and school athletic activities. Construction is projected to begin within the next one to two years once funding is secured.
Where and When?
The convocation center will be located on the Bluffton campus of USCB. Patrick estimates that the necessary funding and planning will extend the timeline further than originally anticipated. The university aims to complete construction by 2024; however, this is contingent upon overcoming financial hurdles.
Why is this Important?
The center is part of USCB’s larger strategy to expand its presence in the Lowcountry region. In recent years, the university has invested in various projects, including the completion of a $25 million campus in Hilton Head in 2019 and a $3.5 million student recreation center on the Bluffton campus in 2015. Furthermore, USCB has elevated its competition level by transitioning to NCAA Division II, adding volleyball and basketball teams to its roster for the upcoming 2023-24 term.
Funding and Economic Impact
To date, USCB has secured $16.25 million in funding from the state, plus an additional $8.5 million allocated in the proposed budget for the following year. Local officials believe cooperation between the state and Beaufort County will be essential for achieving the project’s financial requirements. According to Beaufort County Council Chairman Joseph Passiment, the county intimates that funds will stem from local property taxes rather than the initially proposed tax increment financing strategy.
An economic impact study conducted by the Regional Economic Analysis Laboratory at Clemson University in 2020 estimated that construction of the convocation center would generate approximately 124 to 203 jobs in Beaufort County. Once operational, the facility is expected to contribute between $3.4 million and $4.3 million annually to the local economy and create around 50 permanent jobs.
Conclusion
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and rising costs, the leadership at USCB remains optimistic about the future of the convocation center. “It’s a real win-win for us to have a facility like this located in our community that meets USCB’s needs as well as community needs,” said Patrick, emphasizing the importance of the project for both the university and the broader community.
