Exciting Times Ahead for Bluffton as New Economic Development Buildings Break Ground

Exciting Times Ahead for Bluffton: New Economic Development Buildings Break Ground

Hey there, Bluffton! We’ve got some exciting news to share with you. On October 17, local officials gathered to kick off a big project that aims to boost economic development right here in our community. The groundbreaking ceremony marked the beginning of one of three newly planned buildings that will be part of the Don Ryan Center for Innovation and Dolnik Properties initiative in Buckwalter Place.

Creating Opportunities in Buckwalter Place

These projects are dedicated to helping innovators, start-ups, and businesses find a home in Bluffton. The new buildings will be conveniently located near the Bluffton Police Department on 101 Progressive Street. What’s even more exciting is that these buildings will not just be structures; they will be hubs of creativity and growth for our local economy.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, a town spokesperson thanked everyone who participated, saying, “Thank you to everyone who joined the Town of Bluffton, Don Ryan Center for Innovation, and Dolnik Properties to break ground on one of the first of three economic development buildings in Buckwalter Place.” It was a significant moment for Bluffton, with attendees from various local agencies and businesses, including Bluffton Town Council, the Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation, and many innovative minds from the Don Ryan Center.

A Collaborative Effort

This project is a collaboration between the Town of Bluffton and Dolnik Properties, and it promises to bring about some exciting changes. The land has been purchased by the town, while Dolnik Properties will be responsible for developing, owning, and managing the buildings, except for the spaces operated by the Don Ryan Center for Innovation.

Why is this such a big deal? Well, the three buildings will encompass 50,100 square feet of office and light industrial space, which will cater to various businesses and entrepreneurial needs. The first building alone will feature 14,400 square feet of space, including a second location for the Don Ryan Center for Innovation, a childcare center, and flexible rental workspaces. Talk about versatility!

Investing in Our Future

The Town of Bluffton is committing around $4.1 million to infrastructure, utilities, and parking, while Dolnik Properties will invest over $7 million into the project. Once the first building is completed, the town will officially own it, with the Don Ryan Center for Innovation taking charge of its operations and leasing activities.

Funding these initiatives has been made smoother thanks to support from the community. The town secured a $130,000 grant from Beaufort County’s Economic Development Corporation and a $1 million grant from the South Carolina Power Team. This team is a coalition of electric companies and cooperatives working tirelessly to promote economic development and job growth across South Carolina.

A Bright Future for Bluffton

Bluffton is proudly home to Buckwalter Place, a sprawling 94-acre business park designed with the intention of spurring economic growth and attracting knowledge-based industries. This park has already welcomed prominent developments like the St. Joseph’s/Candler Medical Campus, Kroger, TCL’s Culinary Institute of the South, and, of course, the Don Ryan Center for Innovation.

As if that’s not enough, Dolnik Properties will also be gaining access to five acres in the Commerce Park, paving the way for even more exciting developments in our town.

A Vision for Innovation

In essence, this new development is all about providing resources and spaces for Bluffton’s talented innovators, small businesses, and aspiring start-ups to truly thrive. With our community coming together in this way, we’re well on our way to a brighter, more prosperous Bluffton. Keep your eyes peeled for more updates on this fantastic journey!