Greenville, S.C., September 5, 2025
News Summary
Greenville, S.C. is moving forward with plans to renovate its City Hall, a building that has not been updated in over 50 years. The city is seeking proposals for renovation, opting to retain ownership of the vital facility. Funded through a capital reserve and bond, the project aims to modernize the 102,000-square-foot building without raising taxes. Significant upgrades are scheduled for completion by the end of 2028, focusing on improving public access and accommodating growth.
Greenville, S.C. is advancing renovation plans for its City Hall building, a vital step towards modernizing a structure that has not seen major updates in over 50 years. The city has initiated a request for renovation proposals for the 102,000-square-foot facility located at 206 S. Main Street, shifting focus from a previously considered sale to a private developer. City officials, following an evaluation, concluded that retaining the building under City ownership would better serve taxpayers and enhance public services.
The City Hall renovation project is set to be funded through a capital reserve and bond, with an assurance that residents will not see any tax increases as a result. The extensive upgrades are estimated to cost between $35 to $40 million. Mayor Knox White highlighted that the plans aim to reflect the ongoing revitalization of downtown Greenville and improve accessibility for citizens wishing to engage with city services.
As part of the renovation, City Council chambers will be relocated from the top floor to the ground floor, facilitating improved public access and participation. Proposals from professional architects and engineers are due by September 30, 2023, with a design expected to be selected in October 2025. Construction is projected to begin in early 2027 and conclude by the end of 2028. During the renovation period, temporary meeting locations for city meetings will be announced, ensuring minimal disruption to city functions.
The renovation will focus on addressing existing maintenance issues and accommodating future growth. The first six floors of City Hall will house various city departments, while the upper floors will remain as an interior shell, allowing for potential future development. The project will include an addition to the rear of the building, introducing new City Council chambers and a dedicated employee entrance.
A feasibility study recommended the renovation option after determining it was more cost-effective compared to building a new structure. Established in 1938, the current City Hall has been the city’s headquarters for over eight decades. The new design aims for a contemporary workspace that promotes public interaction while improving employee working conditions and enhancing the overall public space.
Significant upgrades to mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and fire protection systems are planned, reflecting a comprehensive approach toward modernization. The design and permitting phase is anticipated to be completed in approximately 12 months, after which construction bids will be solicited. Greenville’s strong financial positioning, bolstered by a triple-A credit rating, equips the city to pursue this extensive renovation without adding a financial burden to its residents.
Notably, the average rental price for downtown office space currently stands at around $29 per square foot. This situation suggests potential revenue opportunities that may arise from leasing parts of the facility, which could help offset some of the renovation costs.
Key Features of City Hall Renovation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 102,000 square feet |
| Age | 53 years since last major renovation |
| Cost | Estimated between $35 – $40 million |
| Funding | Capital reserve and bond, no new taxes |
| Start of Construction | Early 2027 |
| Completion Date | End of 2028 |
| Current Facility Usage | City departments on floors 1-6, upper floors for future development |
FAQ
What is the reason for the City Hall renovation?
The renovation aims to modernize the facility, address maintenance issues, and improve public accessibility while maintaining City ownership, which is deemed more beneficial for taxpayers compared to a sale.
How will the project be financed?
The renovations will be funded through a capital reserve and bond, with a commitment that no tax increases will occur for residents.
What are the expected timelines for the renovation?
Proposals from architects are due by September 30, 2023, with the design selection in October 2025. Construction is anticipated to begin in early 2027 and finish by the end of 2028.
What improvements will be made to the building?
Renovations will include upgrades to mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire systems, and a relocation of City Council chambers for better public access. An addition will also be created for new facilities and entrances.
Will city meetings be affected during renovations?
Yes, temporary meeting locations will be provided to ensure city meetings can continue with minimal disruption during the renovation process.
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Additional Resources
- Greenville City Hall Renovation Request for Proposals
- Fox Carolina News
- Greenville Journal
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Greenville
- Google News: Greenville City Hall Renovation
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
