FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
To: News Media and Community Leaders
From: Bamberg County
Date: February 9, 2026
Re: Bamberg County Awarded $1.5 Million for Downtown Renaissance Community Project
Bamberg, South Carolina (February 2026) –Congressman Jim Clyburn has secured $50 million to fund South Carolina Congressional District 6 community projects, and Bamberg County has appropriated $1.5 million of those funds to support a Downtown Renaissance project that will include a commercial kitchen, farmers market, community and discovery center.
Following the devastation of the 2024 Category EF-2 tornado that struck Downtown Bamberg, the County Council and Administration have been working diligently to rebuild and restore the county seat as a place that fosters community, service, and pride among residents. The Bamberg Commercial Kitchen, Farmers Market, Community and Discovery Center will not only fulfill that goal but also serve as a multipurpose facility serving Bamberg County’s agricultural, entrepreneurial, educational, historic, and cultural sectors. The one-stop shop will offer a retail space for local farmers and artisans, meeting rooms for business training and social events, and a discovery center that will celebrate Bamberg County’s history, culture, and arts.
“I’ve dedicated my time and efforts in Congress to ensure federal government investments in the communities I serve, especially those that have been historically neglected. This funding responds directly to some of the most pressing needs in those communities,” said Congressman Clyburn. "These investments will help grow South Carolina’s economy, improve our water supply, support our local colleges and universities, ensure public safety in our rural communities, and more. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to make America’s greatness accessible and affordable to all.”
Bamberg County Councilwoman (District 2) Sharon Hammond, who represents the downtown area, is thrilled by the news and noted, “This multifaceted community project is exactly what we need. It will positively impact economic development and enhance our citizens’ quality of life while uplifting local business, education, and culture.”
“We are so thankful to finally begin this project that has been years in the making and express our deepest gratitude to Congressman Clyburn for his part in helping us to make this dream a reality. Such a multipurpose facility will not only benefit our local agricultural and business community but also promote the arts, tourism, education, and economic development. This initiative represents a creative and efficient repurposing of existing property and will give Bamberg residents a place to prepare, process, and sell their products in an environmentally- controlled space and provide a community center that can be leased for family events and other community activities,” stated County Administrator Joey Preston.
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For more information, please email info@bambergcounty.sc.gov