Bluffton, SC, September 11, 2025
News Summary
The Bluffton Town Council has approved critical developments, including the expansion of Spartina 449’s headquarters, a new connector road, and a land exchange with the Beaufort County School District. These projects aim to enhance local infrastructure and promote economic growth, creating new job opportunities and supporting educational facilities. Spartina 449 will invest $6.1 million in its new headquarters, expected to generate approximately 15 new jobs, while the connector road will improve transport links within the community.
Bluffton Town Council Approves Spartina 449 Headquarters, Road Extension, and Land Exchange for School District
Bluffton Town Council has approved significant developments to boost local economy and infrastructure, including the expansion of Spartina 449, a women’s clothing brand, a new road connector, and a land exchange with the Beaufort County School District. The council’s recent meeting emphasized the importance of these projects for the town’s growth and community resources.
Spartina 449 Expansion
The council has granted an economic development incentive agreement to Spartina 449, which plans to invest approximately $6.1 million in a new 14,100-square-foot corporate headquarters at Bluffton Village Town Center, situated at the intersection of Bluffton Road and Thurmond Way. The agreement allows Spartina to benefit from reductions of up to 50% off business license and permitting fees, as well as potentially 100% off water and sewer capacity fees over the next five years, collectively amounting to around $196,487 in total incentives.
This expansion is expected to generate about 15 new jobs, with an average hourly wage projected at $40.71. Groundbreaking for the new headquarters is anticipated later this year. The town is expected to gain a net revenue of $140,112 over five years as a result of this project. Notably, Spartina 449 had previously considered expanding into larger cities like Charleston and Savannah but ultimately opted to continue its growth in Bluffton.
New Connector Road
Another significant development approved by the council is the construction of a new connector road between Buckwalter Place and Washington Square. Southeastern Development Associates (SEDA) will oversee the project, with costs capped at $654,849.72, which will be evenly shared among the town, Beaufort County, and SEDA. This connector will run behind the Kroger gas station and is part of the initial master plan for Buckwalter Place, aligning with the town’s goals to enhance local transport infrastructure.
Land Exchange for School Development
The Bluffton Town Council has also authorized the exchange of approximately 20 acres of town-owned land with the Beaufort County School District. This land is earmarked for a potential new lower school and athletic facilities, along with administrative offices. The exchange is contingent on the school district purchasing 142.5 acres in the Willow Run Tract from Indian Hill Associates LLC, which has been identified as suitable for school development.
If the transaction proceeds, Bluffton will acquire development rights to areas designated for the construction of 260 residential units, two 150-unit hotels, and 162 acres of general commercial space for an investment of $2.5 million. The strategic land acquisition is deemed significant as it presents one of the last large tracts available in the region. Furthermore, the school district is more inclined to develop on the town-owned parcel than the highway-adjacent Indian Hill land, which offers better visibility and accessibility for the community.
Economic Growth and Community Impact
The recent approvals by the Bluffton Town Council signify strong local economic development efforts. Since the ratification of the economic development project grant ordinance in September 2023, Bluffton has witnessed a total capital investment of $56.1 million, leading to the creation of 90,500 square feet of office space and the addition of 161 new jobs in the region. These developments are expected to bolster Bluffton’s appeal as a thriving business location while aiding in the expansion of educational facilities for its growing population.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the approvals made by the Bluffton Town Council are set to support economic growth and enhance community resources. The expansion of Spartina 449, the new connector road, and the land exchange with the Beaufort County School District represent significant steps forward for the town, reflecting a commitment to improving local infrastructure and meeting the needs of residents.
FAQs
What is Spartina 449?
Spartina 449 is a women’s clothing brand founded in 2009 on Daufuskie Island, known for its Southern-inspired fashion.
How much is Spartina 449 investing in its new headquarters?
Spartina 449 plans to invest approximately $6.1 million in its new corporate headquarters.
What economic benefits will Bluffton receive from Spartina’s expansion?
The town is expected to gain a net revenue of $140,112 over five years due to the expansion.
What road improvement has been approved by Bluffton Town Council?
The council has approved the construction of a new connector road between Buckwalter Place and Washington Square.
What is the purpose of the land exchange with the Beaufort County School District?
The land exchange aims to facilitate the establishment of a new school and support facilities in Bluffton.
How many jobs will the Spartina 449 expansion create?
The expansion is expected to generate 15 new jobs with an average hourly wage of $40.71.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Expansion | Spartina 449 is investing $6.1 million in new headquarters |
| Job Creation | 15 new positions with an average wage of $40.71/hour |
| Connector Road | New road construction between Buckwalter Place and Washington Square |
| Land Exchange | 20 acres of land exchanged for school development |
| Budget for Connector | $654,849.72 shared among town and county |
| Total Capital Investment since September 2023 | $56.1 million, creating 161 new jobs |
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Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Bluffton Town Council Approves Spartina 449 Headquarters
- Wikipedia: General Information
- WTOC: Spartina 449 Warehouse Sale Raises Funds
- Google Search: Bluffton Town Council
- WSAV: Spartina 449 Warehouse Sales Gets New Location
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Local Governance
- Island Packet: Economic Development in Bluffton
- Google News: Spartina 449
- Island Packet: Business Developments in Bluffton
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