September groundbreaking expected for new Travelers Rest city hall, police department

TRAVELERS REST, S.C. — Travelers Rest council members last week voted to approve the construction of a new city hall and police department complex to be built adjoining Trailblazer Park.

Slated to cost an estimated $6 million, the approximately 17,000-square-foot complex includes city government offices, municipal court, council chambers, the police station, a public works building, and a visitor's center area.

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First identified as a governmental "top priority" in March 2016, officials say the current city hall facility on State Park Road is dated and in need of expansion.

Following preliminary space planning sessions, officials suggested building at the Trailblazer Park location would be an optimal solution, "streamlining the process for building permitting, business licensing and [city] administration" with all of the cities services located in one location.

(Note: To view renderings of the complex, click here.)

Groundbreaking is projected to take place in September, according to City Administrator Dianna Gracely.

In addition to council members unanimously approving ordinances authorizing the issuance of 20-year bonds, Gracely says the project is also being funded with equity from the sale of the old Poinsett Highway fire station as well as with local hospitality and accommodations tax money.

According to Gracely, a property tax increase of just under 6 mils will be assessed to cover repayment of the 20-year term bonds. On a home assessed at $100,000, the property owner will see a property tax increase of approximately $22 per year.

Related on the Tribune:

Travelers Rest councilmembers approve first votes on new city hall, police department

Officials to hold info meeting on city hall complex, tax increase

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