Tri-County Technical College reopened a newly renovated academic hall Nov. 20 after investing $22 million into the update. The technical college first opened in 1962 in Pendleton, serving the Upstate’s westernmost counties. It enrolls approximately 9,000 students each year.
While the ribbon cutting for TCTC’s Oconee Hall occurred on Nov. 20, faculty moved into the space in December. Instruction for students is not expected to commence until spring 2025.
The 36,000-square-foot hall was constructed in 1980. Oconee Hall is now home to a 3,400 square-foot terrace and additional space with the upfit expanding the original building by about 44%. It is expected to increase capacity by 60% with 20 new classrooms.
Construction for the space took place over the course of 20 months spearheaded by DP3 Architects and Harper General Contractors. Portions of the hall were built by the school’s welding students who forged “TCTC” on the front of the building.
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Magna International opens satellite office
On Dec. 4, automotive supplier Magna International announced it would open a satellite office in Piedmont. The new facility will be located at 923 Matrix Parkway near the Lakeview Golf Club. The business also plans to expand existing operations.
The new facility will total 625,000 square feet and produce automotive supplies for cars, commercial vehicles and light trucks.
The company will make a combined investment of $200 million into the area along with the creation of 200 jobs. Additionally, the South Carolina Coordinating Council for Economic Development awarded Greenville County a $500,000 set-aside grant for the new facility. Operations are projected to begin early next year. Those interested in careers with Magna can apply at magna.com/south-carolina.
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Local drugstore closes after 110 years
A century-old drugstore has closed in Belton.
Clinkscales Drugs, located at 727 Anderson St., closed on Dec. 11 after 110 years. The business opened in 1915 and announced its closure by social media Nov. 21.
“After serving you for 110 years, Clinkscales Drugs will be closing our doors on Wednesday, Dec. 11. We have been proud to serve you and your families and will be forever grateful for your support for our family,” the post said.
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Cancer center breaks ground
The Cancer Association of Anderson broke ground on a new facility, the Malik Center for Hope and Healing. It will be located at 215 E. Calhoun St. in downtown Anderson.
The association currently operates out of a small house on site, but the extra space will allow for room for its programs and expanding upon fitness activities and educational classes. The Malik Center will add a teaching kitchen and access to massage, acupuncture therapy and a courtyard, adding a total of 6,000-square-feet of operational space.
The nonprofit organization still requires capital for completion of the project, with donations going toward items such as new equipment and furniture. Those interested in donating can donate at https://cancerassociationanderson.org.
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Construction begins on Clemson vet school
Clemson University broke ground on South Carolina’s first veterinary school Nov. 22. The Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine is named for state Sen. Harvey S. Peeler Jr., who graduated from Clemson in 1970 and has served in the South Carolina Senate continuously since 1981. The school is still in the process of receiving accreditation but expects to welcome its inaugural class for instruction in 2026.
