What famous American musician hails from Spartanburg, SC and is known for hits such as "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Free Bird"?

The new Pet Resource Center in Spartanburg County is set to open in early 2026 with a $24.6 million budget.

The facility will include various amenities such as kennels, adoption and clinic lobbies, and surgery rooms.

Despite some criticism over the project's cost, County Councilmember Jessica Coker believes it will benefit the community.

The center will operate using an alternate business model rather than as a traditional shelter.

Staff hiring is ongoing, with a director of Animal Welfare Services to be appointed soon.

The goal is to reunite stray animals with their families and provide resources for pet owners.

Woodward Inc. will invest nearly $200 million to launch a new manufacturing facility in Spartanburg County, bringing about 275 new jobs to the region.

 

This 300,000-square-foot plant, located in Smith Farms Industrial Park in Greer, will specialize in advanced servo-hydraulic actuation systems vital for aircraft flight control, targeting production for the Airbus A350 and other aviation clients.

 

Operations are expected to start in 2027.

 

The county has endorsed a 40-year fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreement that lowers the tax rate for Woodward, alongside $3.25 million in special source revenue credits and job development incentives to support the project.

 

Governor Henry McMaster celebrated the move, highlighting South Carolina’s reputation as a manufacturing leader.

 

This major expansion is set to boost local economic growth and reinforce Spartanburg’s crucial role in the aerospace and manufacturing industries.

Step into The Kennedy and you’ll quickly see why it’s become one of Spartanburg’s most buzzed-about dining experiences.

 

With an atmosphere that blends Southern hospitality and modern elegance, The Kennedy offers seasonal menus crafted by acclaimed chef William Cribb, spotlighting local ingredients in creative ways.

 

 Whether you're savoring a hand-crafted cocktail or diving into a plate of seared scallops, every detail feels intentionally curated. It’s the perfect spot for date nights, celebrations, or simply treating yourself to the finer side of Spartanburg’s culinary scene.

Woodward Inc. will invest nearly $200 million to open a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Greer’s Smith Farms Industrial Park, boosting Spartanburg County’s reputation as a manufacturing powerhouse.

 

The new 300,000-square-foot facility, designed to produce servo-hydraulic actuation systems for aircraft, is set to create approximately 275 new jobs with operations beginning in 2027.

 

This marks another major economic milestone, as the county recently attracted $745 million in new investments and 1,220 jobs in 2024 alone.

 

Support from the Coordinating Council for Economic Development includes job development credits and a $1.75 million grant to offset construction costs.

 

Woodward’s arrival highlights the region’s skilled aerospace workforce and strengthens its position in advanced manufacturing.

 

The company’s move, praised by local and state leaders, brings fresh opportunities and further solidifies Spartanburg County’s future as a center of innovation.

Q&A Questions

Q: What is Spartanburg known for?

A: Spartanburg is known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Q: What are some popular attractions in Spartanburg?

A: Some popular attractions in Spartanburg include the Spartanburg Art Museum, the Hub City Railroad Museum, and Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve.

Q: What are some annual events in Spartanburg?

A: Some annual events in Spartanburg include Spring Fling, a downtown street festival with live music and food vendors, and the Greek Festival, celebrating Spartanburg's Greek heritage with traditional food and dancing.

Ronnie Van Zant, lead singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd