Population: 11,758
Population in 2010: 7,799
Median income: $73,665
Mayor: GP McLeer
City Council:
Jason Sanders, Ward 1
Jay Thomason, Ward 2
Joey Garrett, Ward 3
Phil Clemmer, Ward 4
John Don, Ward 5
Mack Blackstone, Ward 6
Big number: $19 million in private business investments resulting in over 800,000 square feet of permitted development since Nov. 1, 2022.
Fast fact: Over $5 million in private investments in Fountain Inn’s downtown central business district since 2021 have resulted in over 20 new-use or renovated-business permits being issued.
Business history: Fountain Inn is experiencing a second renaissance of sorts as it relates to economic development. In the 1950s, community leaders had the forethought to extend water lines from Greenville to Fountain Inn. That corridor was given the moniker of the “Golden Strip” due to the potential development that water line would bring. As the southernmost point of that corridor, Fountain Inn became known as the “Diamond Tip of the Golden Strip.” Fountain Inn has realized much of that potential growth since then, but that growth has exploded in the last few years. Not immune to the expansion of the Upstate region, Fountain Inn has seen growth in new families relocating to the city as well as new businesses opening their doors. Manufacturing and distribution facilities such as Sage Parts and Fuyao Glass America are employing thousands in and around Fountain Inn while smaller retail and restaurant businesses including Steam Coffee & Cream and Voodoo Brewing Co. are thriving in the city’s downtown area.
What’s next: Fountain Inn will continue to expand its commercial presence in Greenville and Laurens counties. The city appointed Jason Knudsen as its first planning and development director. The renovation of the historic flour mill in downtown Fountain Inn will bring new restaurant and retail opportunities to the area while preserving the city’s heritage and small-town atmosphere. This project will feature a new brewery, food hall and an outdoor entertainment area. The newly developed INNvision Comprehensive Plan lays out a road map for the next five to 10 years. The plan calls for expanding Main Street streetscapes beginning in 2024, a new fire department and training facility, developing a municipal complex plan, and new streetscapes and connectors to the city’s historic Woodside Village.
Sources:
United States Census Bureau
City of Fountain Inn staff
