News Summary
Fluor Field, home to the Greenville Drive, has significantly contributed to the local economy, generating nearly $300 million over the past decade. Designed by Craig Brown, this stadium is not only a hub for baseball but also a catalyst for revitalizing the West End area. The community has embraced Fluor Field since its opening in 2006, leading to increased business opportunities and recognition as a top ballpark. Notable milestones include welcoming its 6 millionth fan and receiving local honors for its contributions to community life and economic development.
Greenville, South Carolina – Fluor Field is a significant player in the economic revitalization of Greenville, with the stadium contributing nearly $300 million to the local economy over the past decade. Home to the Greenville Drive, a High-A Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Boston Red Sox, Fluor Field has become a vibrant community hub since its opening in 2006.
The stadium, designed by Craig Brown at a cost of $20 million, features a replica of Fenway Park’s iconic Green Monster, boasting a massive left field wall that adds charm to the facility. Privately owned by Brown, Fluor Field has attracted around half a million visitors annually, not only for baseball games but also for a variety of events that further engage the community.
Fluor Field’s impact reaches beyond direct attendance. A recent study by VisitGreenvilleSC reported that the economic contributions of both the stadium and the Greenville Drive combined amounted to approximately $288 million over the last ten years. The drive for local growth has led to the revitalization of the West End, an area once considered blighted and unsafe. The stadium’s construction utilized bricks from old textile mills, symbolizing a commitment to the area’s history while paving the way for a brighter future.
Community Involvement and Business Growth
Since its inception, the community has embraced Fluor Field, leading to increased foot traffic and business opportunities in the area. Local businesses like Old Europe Desserts attribute their success to the increased patronage driven by the stadium’s events and popularity. The development surrounding Fluor Field has transformed nearby residential neighborhoods, attracting new business openings and enhancing the local atmosphere.
Recognition and Features
Fluor Field has earned recognition as one of the top Single-A ballparks in the country, ranking third according to a report by Newsweek. This ranking was based on a combination of factors that include charm, vintage vibes, modern flair, and overall fan experiences. The stadium features a 30-foot-high hand-operated scoreboard, a substantial video screen, and is versatile enough to host events beyond baseball, such as corporate meetings and social celebrations.
Milestones and Ongoing Success
The popularity of Fluor Field is further underscored by the fact that it has welcomed its 6 millionth fan since its opening. This milestone highlights the stadium’s enduring presence and significance in the region. The Greenville Drive continues to demonstrate competitive success, as recently evidenced by their 4-2 series win against the Rome Emperors, showcasing their performance within the South Atlantic League.
Craig Brown received the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, during the team’s 20th anniversary season, a testament to his contributions towards enhancing local sports and community life through the development of the stadium. Fluor Field has not only redefined the West End but has also contributed positively to Greenville’s identity, making it a celebrated location recognized on platforms like CBS Evening News.
Fluor Field stands as a testament to the power of community engagement and economic development, demonstrating how a local sports venue can catalyze significant change within a city while fostering a sense of pride and unity among its residents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- MiLB: Greenville Walks It Off in Extras
- CBS News: How Minor League Ballpark Revived South Carolina Downtown
- Greenville Online: Study on Fluor Field’s Economic Impact
- Greenville Business Magazine: Fluor Field Named One of the Top Minor League Ballparks
- Greenville Journal: 20 Years of the Greenville Drive
- Wikipedia: Greenville, South Carolina
- Google Search: Fluor Field
- Google Scholar: Greenville Drive
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Minor League Baseball
- Google News: Greenville Drive
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.
