Florence, S.C., October 8, 2025
News Summary
Florence, S.C. is initiating a $65 million revitalization plan focused on transforming North Florence and downtown areas. Key projects include the demolition of aging apartments for affordable housing, stormwater improvements, and new community developments. The initiative aims to enhance infrastructure, create safer neighborhoods, and boost community pride. An empowerment walk is planned to celebrate these changes. With recognition for its revitalization efforts, Florence continues to innovate while honoring its historic roots.
Florence, S.C. is set to undergo significant transformations as the city embarks on a $65 million revitalization initiative targeting the North Florence and downtown areas. This ambitious project aims to enhance community pride while addressing critical issues like housing, infrastructure, and beautification in the region.
The cornerstone of this initiative includes the demolition of the aging Oakland plantation apartments on Oakland Avenue, which have stood for 40 years. In their place, the city plans to introduce a new affordable housing development named the Dr. Iona D. Jones community, honoring the late local leader’s contributions to the area. Furthermore, multiple abandoned structures, including a two-story home, will also be cleared to make way for new developments.
As a proactive measure addressing flooding concerns, the city identified Oakland Avenue as a flood-prone area, prompting a $12 million stormwater drainage project. This upgrade aims to mitigate flooding during inclement weather, enhancing safety and livability for residents.
In alignment with the housing initiative, Florence plans to invest in homeownership opportunities on Brunson Street by constructing 10 new homes. The local government has already received five applications for this initiative, where buyers can receive $25,000 in down payment assistance through collaboration with local pastors to facilitate rapid engagement within the community.
Another new venture includes the demolition of the old Chris store to pave the way for a new gas station, further promoting local business opportunities.
To kick off these revitalization efforts, an “empowerment walk” is scheduled for Saturday, celebrating the community changes and raising awareness about the ongoing projects. Additionally, Florence Mayor Lethonia Barnes highlighted the city’s goal to reclaim the area from issues such as drugs and violence, emphasizing the importance of community pride in overcoming these challenges.
The Florence City Council plans to address these revitalization projects in detail during their meeting on Monday, October 13. Notably, the late Dr. Iona Jones’s former home will also be demolished, with plans to construct an empowerment center that will feature an outdoor gallery aimed at celebrating local art and heritage.
Florence’s downtown area has already garnered recognition, receiving the 2023 Great American Main Street Award for its commitment to revitalization excellence. The Downtown Florence Main Street organization has been instrumental in developing strategies for community engagement, historic preservation, and housing improvement, a trajectory established since efforts commenced in 2002. The city gained momentum following a community-informed plan adopted in 2011, resulting in over 100 new housing units and a cumulative $300 million in investments.
Part of the downtown transformation included the demolition of the historic Florentine building, which was constructed in 1951. This demolition, completed by Target Contractors, adhered to a careful process utilizing both deconstruction and demolition techniques to minimize community impact. Remarkably, approximately 215 gross tons of metal and nearly 604.4 tons of clean concrete were recycled during this process, showcasing a commitment to sustainability.
As revitalization projects progress, they will be designed to preserve the character and standards of the existing historic neighborhoods, ensuring that Florence not only transforms but also honors its past.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the revitalization initiative in Florence, S.C.?
The initiative aims to enhance community pride, improve housing, upgrade infrastructure, and beautify North Florence and downtown areas.
What specific projects are included in this revitalization effort?
Key projects include the demolition of the Oakland plantation apartments, the construction of new affordable housing, stormwater drainage improvements, and the development of commercial spaces like a new gas station.
How will the city address flooding concerns on Oakland Avenue?
The city plans to execute a $12 million stormwater drainage project to alleviate flooding issues during severe weather events.
When will the empowerment walk take place?
The empowerment walk is scheduled for Saturday, serving as a launch event for the revitalization initiatives.
Key Features of the Revitalization Initiative
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Investment | $65 million |
| Demolition Projects | Oakland plantation apartments, old Chris store, and Dr. Iona Jones’s home |
| New Developments | Dr. Iona D. Jones community and a new gas station |
| Housing Initiatives | 10 new homes on Brunson Street with $25,000 down payment assistance |
| Stormwater Drainage Investment | $12 million |
| Awards | 2023 Great American Main Street Award |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Florence, S.C. Launches Major Revitalization Initiative
Florence City Council Adopts Comprehensive Master Plans
Councilman McCall Voices Frustration Over Affordable Housing Opposition
Fluor Field’s Economic Impact on Greenville
Florence Hosts Inaugural Sounds of the Pee Dee Event
Florence Unveils New Housing Initiative for Essential Workers
Chavez-Deremer and Fry Address Economic Development in SC
Timber Industry Crisis Hits South Carolina Hard
South Carolina’s Focus on Supporting Small Businesses
South Carolina Gears Up for Small Business Saturday
Additional Resources
- WPDE: North Florence Construction Revitalization
- Wikipedia: Urban Revitalization
- WMBF News: Great American Main Street Award
- Google Search: Florence SC revitalization
- WBTW: Projects to Bring Hundreds of Homes to Florence
- Google Scholar: Affordable Housing Initiatives
- Post and Courier: Darlington Florence Downtown Revitalization
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Planning
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
