SPARTANBURG COUNTY IS GROWING

Spartanburg County’s population and economy are growing. In 1990, about 227,000 residents called this county home. By 2014, that number rose to nearly 294,000 people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Much of that growth has occurred in the Boiling Springs area, as well as in the southwestern portion of the county, which includes Duncan, Moore, Lyman and part of Greer.

The interstate system, along with the area’s quality of life and ready workforce, continues to be a major draw for large manufacturers. In 2014 alone, 14 companies announced a combined investment of nearly $2.4 billion – much of that in the southwestern portion of the county near Interstate 85. In addition to an expansion by existing economic engine BMW Manufacturing Co., last year’s projects included the announcement of Toray Industries Inc.’s $1 billion investment to build a carbon fiber plant along Highway 290 in the Moore area and a plan by Bass Pro Shops to build a store along I-85 and Highway 101. To put the recent growth into perspective, Spartanburg County has averaged adding $14.9 million in investment and 26 new jobs each week during the past five years.