WINNSBORO, S.C. — Winnsboro is moving closer to implementing significant changes to its downtown area, a project years in the making.
On Thursday, town officials shared an update on downtown revitalization plans, which include $1 million in state funds, and the reservation of Thespian Hall, which will get another $1 million from next year's state budget.
Officials said the town is ready to transform vacant and rundown storefronts into vibrant business spaces.
“To create life again, you know, to bring back like a curbside appeal that is attractive,” said Winnsboro Town Manager Christopher Clauson. "It obviously won't be like it was before, but it will be new, re-envisioned."
Clauson and other town leaders have secured $2 million in state funds to revitalize the downtown area. The plan involves transforming vacant and rundown storefronts into spaces that could attract new businesses.
“We had one property owner who has five properties who was willing to sell to the town,” Clauson said.
The first property to be given a revamp is the Douglas Building, which has been vacant upstairs and in two storefronts downstairs.
“We would actually try to split these back up; they are currently joined in one section, but I would think three unique spaces would be beneficial,” Clauson added. "Apartments, there’s a potential for that, but really, we need to get into the design aspect to see what improvements are required and can be made."
The town also will address drainage issues behind the building, purchasing two empty lots behind the Speedy Wok. Once those issues are fixed, there’s also a plan for that area.
“That will potentially will lend to a public space,” Clauson said.
The town is also purchasing the former Chamber of Commerce building and the former service station for restoration.
“We need something downtown. You can ride down and there are no cars on either side of the road hardly,” Winnsboro resident Bill Wilkes said.
They will be bid out once the work on these buildings is complete.