Downtown Spartanburg's Montgomery Ward Building Finally Gets Green Light for $18M Overhaul

A long-dormant cornerstone of Downtown Spartanburg is poised for a dramatic rebirth.

The Spartanburg City Council voted unanimously this week to approve a development agreement for the former Montgomery Ward building, injecting life into a site that has sat vacant for decades.

The decisive 6-0 vote clears the path for an $18 million mixed-use project at 111 E. Main St.

It's a moment many in the community have been anticipating for years.

Previous efforts to redevelop the historic property were stymied by soaring interest rates and complex utility issues, but developers are now ready to move forward.

The ambitious plan will transform the building into a vibrant hub with over 7,000 square feet of ground-floor retail and between 22 and 26 modern apartment units.

Adjacent to the department store, a new five-story building will rise at 109 E. Main St., a property that is currently just a facade.

During a presentation to the council, City Manager Chris Story hinted at the possibility of a “regionally known” retailer anchoring the commercial space, sparking considerable buzz.

Architectural plans reveal a thoughtful approach, preserving the historic exterior of the Montgomery Ward building while incorporating a large interior courtyard to provide natural light for the new residences.

Construction is slated to begin in the second quarter of 2026, timed with expectations of more favorable interest rates.

But the council's agenda went beyond bricks and mortar, tackling critical issues of community values and historic identity.

In the same meeting, council members gave unanimous final approval to a municipal hate crimes ordinance, a significant move for the city.

Spartanburg now becomes the 23rd municipality in South Carolina to enact such protections.

The ordinance creates a new misdemeanor charge of “Hate Intimidation.”

This charge can be applied when an existing offense, like assault or vandalism, is proven to be motivated by bias against a person's race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.

The maximum penalty for the additional charge is a $500 fine and/or 30 days in jail.

Rounding out a consequential evening, the council also approved a settlement agreement concerning the future of the downtown clock tower.

Following a contentious period and legal challenges from community groups, a compromise was reached.

The agreement ensures the clock tower will not be demolished but instead carefully disassembled and reconstructed at a new location.

Crucially, its historical elements—including the original clock, bell, mechanics, and plaque—will be preserved.

Spartanburg City Council will determine the new site after a study that includes public input, balancing the preservation of a beloved landmark with the ongoing revitalization of downtown.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is happening to the old Montgomery Ward building in Spartanburg?

The historic Montgomery Ward building at 111 E. Main St. is being redeveloped into an $18 million mixed-use project. It will feature ground-floor retail space and 22-26 apartment units, with construction expected to start in 2026.

Does Spartanburg City have a hate crimes law?

Yes, as of October 2025, Spartanburg City Council unanimously passed a municipal hate crimes ordinance. It allows for an additional charge of "Hate Intimidation" for crimes motivated by bias.

What will happen to the Spartanburg downtown clock tower?

Through a settlement agreement, the downtown clock tower will be disassembled and moved to a new location. Its historic components, like the clock and bell, will be preserved and incorporated into the reconstructed tower at a site to be chosen with public input.