AGP Executive Report

Manufacturing Investment: Rock Hill manufacturer Re:Build plans a $20 million expansion and 150 jobs, while CurTec will invest $10 million in Oconee County and add 10 positions. Charleston County is also set to gain 46 jobs from Obatala Sciences’ $656,000 expansion. Construction & Infrastructure: South Carolina projects span health care, retail and industrial development; Waterloo received $2 million for industrial-park improvements, and MUSC’s downtown Charleston cancer hospital is advancing. Workforce: An aging workforce and tighter immigration are worsening skilled-trade shortages, raising the risk of delays for construction and data-center projects. Data Centers: A state committee could receive $50,000 to study the sector, as a settlement blocks development across much of Colleton County’s ACE Basin. Retail Development: Greenville’s zoning board rejected an appeal tied to the proposed Ikea, leaving traffic improvements unresolved before the store can open. Talent Pipeline: South Carolina recorded the nation’s largest net gain of Gen Z adults in 2024, with 22,843 more moving in than out.

Manufacturing Growth: CurTec USA plans a $10 million expansion at its Westminster plant, adding 10 jobs and boosting pharmaceutical-packaging capacity. Rock Hill’s Re:Build Manufacturing plans a $20 million facility and 150 jobs, while biotech firm Obatala Sciences has launched its first East Coast operation in Charleston County with a $656,000 investment and 46 jobs. Housing and Workforce: Greenville-based Lima One Capital is financing attainable homes in Gray Court; the project is among more than 50 Upstate builds it has backed for the builder in two years. South Carolina also recorded 75 H-2B worker approvals in manufacturing through June. Infrastructure: The state’s civil-engineering report card improved to C-minus, though roads, bridges and drinking water remain weak points. Greenville is beginning its largest utility undergrounding project, along Augusta Street. Data Centers: A judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging a Spartanburg County data center, while a separate settlement bars development across most of Colleton County’s ACE Basin, underscoring the push and pull over major projects. Talent: South Carolina led the nation in net Gen Z migration gains in 2024, adding about 22,800 young adults.

Life Sciences: New Orleans-based Obatala Sciences opened its first East Coast operation at MUSC’s Blue Sky Labs in Charleston, pledging nearly $660,000 and 46 jobs in advanced biomanufacturing, with average pay of $46 an hour. Manufacturing Growth: Re:Build plans a $20 million expansion in Rock Hill and 150 hires, while packaging maker CurTec will invest $10 million and add 10 jobs at its Westminster facility. Talent Pipeline: South Carolina drew a net 22,843 Gen Z residents in 2024, the largest gain of any state, adding to a growing workforce pool. Infrastructure: Greenville has begun an $8.33 million project to bury power and communications lines along Augusta Street, with work expected to continue into fall 2027.

Digital Titles: South Carolina’s new DMV law begins the shift to electronic vehicle titles, requiring dealers, lenders and auctions to use the system; the DMV must have it running by March 2027. Energy & Land Use: Sen. Tim Scott introduced a bill to extend tax incentives to new nuclear facilities and U.S.-made transformers. A Colleton County settlement also bars data center development across about 62% of the county, including the ACE Basin. Manufacturing Investment: Re:Build plans a $20 million Rock Hill expansion expected to add 150 jobs. CurTec is investing $10 million in Oconee County and plans to add 10 jobs. Construction: Stanley Martin Homes is entering Florence with two communities totaling 227 planned homes. Retail: Publix plans to close its Goose Creek store by year-end, one of seven closures across three states.

Manufacturing Investment: Re:Build Manufacturing plans a $20 million York County expansion, adding 150 jobs. Anderson County is also set to gain a $215 million wood-products facility from Adeptus USA, while Komatsu marked 25 years of manufacturing in South Carolina. Aerospace: Lockheed Martin’s Greenville plant completed the first flight of a new F-16 Block 72, a milestone for the facility’s international production program. Power and Industry: Greenville-based Integrated Power Services acquired Pennsylvania’s Belyea Company, adding high-voltage equipment and portable-substation capabilities as demand and equipment lead times rise. Data Centers: South Carolina’s debate over large facilities continues: a judge dismissed a challenge to a $2.8 billion project, while a separate settlement blocks development across much of Colleton County’s ACE Basin. In the governor’s debate, candidates differed on a moratorium and protections for local communities. Fuel Costs: With diesel averaging $6.09 statewide in late September, South Carolina lawmakers are planning an emergency session on soaring fuel costs; some also want rules eased for farmers and loggers.

Advanced Manufacturing: Re:Build will invest about $20 million to expand advanced composites in York County, opening a 130,000-square-foot Rock Hill facility and adding 150 skilled manufacturing and engineering jobs, with operations slated for November 2026. Energy & Infrastructure: SCDOT outlined about $10 million in I-26 bridge repairs over Lake Bowen in Spartanburg County, targeting a roughly 60-day construction window starting around spring. Local Transportation Safety: Conway plans a new traffic signal at Highway 701 and Jeannette Street after residents flagged dangerous conditions near South Conway Elementary. Solar Showdown: Fort Mill School District is pushing for an immediate halt to Silfab Solar’s restart plans, arguing safety and leak-prevention upgrades aren’t complete after earlier chemical incidents. Public Finance & Compliance: The state’s MyDORWAY portal is highlighted for reporting tax violations and suspected identity theft/data breaches to SCDOR. Business & Jobs: Becton Dickinson announced a $19 billion U.S. investment tied to federal tariff relief milestones, including manufacturing expansion that covers its Sumter, S.C. footprint. Politics: In the S.C. governor debate, Alan Wilson and Jermaine Johnson clashed on issues including Medicaid expansion, gun violence, and Flock license plate reader cameras. Critical Minerals: Ames National Laboratory received $1.5 million within a broader DOE award to help develop rare-earth separation tech aimed at reducing foreign reliance.

Manufacturing & Jobs: Re:Build will invest about $20M to expand advanced composites manufacturing in Rock Hill, adding a 130,000-square-foot facility and 150 skilled manufacturing and engineering jobs, with operations slated to begin in November. Energy & Regulation: The Southern Environmental Law Center is asking South Carolina’s Public Service Commission to reconsider its decision not to review a 450+ megawatt power plant tied to a Spartanburg data center, arguing the state’s siting law requires approval for plants over 75 megawatts. Solar Oversight: York County Council voted on a declaratory judgment regarding Silfab Solar after the company filed an engineering review and plans to restart chemical processes with notice, while an order is stayed pending appeal. Workforce Pipeline: A national skilled-trades report says the U.S. needs 1.7M skilled workers annually through 2035, but training output lags—highlighting demand pressure felt in states including South Carolina. Local Business & Growth: Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers opened a new Chapin location, expanding quick-service maintenance and tire offerings in the Columbia area. Workplace Culture: Pinnacle Financial Partners ranked No. 3 on Fortune’s Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance list, underscoring continued competition for talent. Public Safety Tech: South Carolina AG Alan Wilson asked Flock Safety for details on privacy practices, including how AI is used, data access limits, and retention policies.

Manufacturing & Jobs: Xingyu Automotive Lighting Systems picked a Landis Ridge Industrial Park site in Landis for its first U.S. manufacturing operation, a 121,800-square-foot facility projected to drive up to $50M in regional economic impact. Food & Consumer Safety: PepsiCo recalled 122,000 cases of Gatorade sold in 37 states, including South Carolina, over undeclared Yellow food dyes; affected flavors include Lemon Lime and Orange (plus zero versions). Energy & Infrastructure: Woodruff Road lane closures in Simpsonville (Greenville County) are underway for Piedmont Natural Gas gas-line repairs, with lanes expected to reopen by Oct. 9. Environment & Coastal Policy: A red snapper season update gives recreational anglers at least 14 days after federal approval, while Ocean Conservancy continues to challenge the plan. Public Health: Pennsylvania confirmed 1,004 measles cases this year, underscoring the broader national outbreak risk that has also hit South Carolina. Local Governance & Growth: Colleton County reached a deal to restrict data centers across much of the ACE Basin after a lawsuit over rural zoning changes. Workforce & Education: USC’s Music Industry Studies program earned Billboard recognition for hands-on training in recorded music, live production and artist management. Politics & Health Care: Democratic Senate candidate Annie Andrews toured Jasper County and Allendale, pitching lower health care costs and protections for rural hospitals.

Food Safety: A frozen berry recall tied to an E. coli outbreak has expanded again, adding Walmart and Trader Joe’s products across dozens of states, with consumers urged to check freezers and lot details. Food Safety: PepsiCo is also recalling 122,000+ cases of 28-ounce Gatorade in 37 states after undeclared Yellow 5/Yellow 6 dyes were found on labels; South Carolina is among the affected markets. Port & Environment: EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin toured the Port of Charleston, highlighting past Diesel Emissions Reduction Act upgrades like hybrid crane engines and electric drayage trucks. Manufacturing & Defense Supply Chains: A defense munitions surge is putting critical mineral supply chains on notice, with antimony demand tied to missile production contracts. Campus Operations: South Carolina State University begins towing vehicles parked in unauthorized areas and for excessive tickets, tightening enforcement around limited student parking. Workforce & Growth: A Ford skilled trades report projects about 1.7 million job openings a year through 2035, with South Carolina listed among states where demand is expected to outpace supply. Business Development: South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce’s Blueprint 2036 feedback tour finds Pee Dee entrepreneurs worried utility and infrastructure limits could slow advanced manufacturing growth.

Manufacturing & Jobs: GT Radial’s Richburg, S.C. tire plant helped the company win its second straight Formula DRIFT Tire Cup Championship, with the Champiro SX2 RS made in the U.S. Food Safety: A frozen-berry recall expanded again after possible E. coli contamination, adding more lots of Trader Joe’s and Walmart Great Value products sold in multiple states including South Carolina. Energy & Tech: MUSC is rolling out virtual nursing in its emergency department arrival workflow to speed intake and reduce crowding, partnering with VirtuAlly. Healthcare Policy: Doctors renewed warnings about energy drinks for kids and teens, pointing to high caffeine risks and citing South Carolina student Davis Cripe’s death. Local Industry & Infrastructure: Crews responded to an exterior fire at NPI Tool and Dye in St. Paul, highlighting ongoing industrial fire risks. Workforce & Education: South Carolina employers in Educational Services filed 520 H-1B petitions in 2025, with a 96.7% approval rate. Public Safety: After flooding, USC experts warn lithium-ion golf cart batteries can pose fire hazards when exposed to saltwater.

Utilities Costs: A new MoneyLion analysis ranks annual utility bills for a family of four by state, showing big swings in electricity, water and gas costs. Food Safety: The FDA expanded a frozen-berry recall tied to possible E. coli contamination, adding more Trader Joe’s and Walmart Great Value lots sold in South Carolina and many other states. Energy & EV Charging: A solar-plus-battery homeowner reports an EV charger drawing from the grid even when set for solar surplus, with a wiring change to the backed-up circuit reportedly fixing the mismatch. Public Health: Doctors renew warnings that energy drinks can be dangerous for kids and teens, citing caffeine-related heart and nervous-system risks and pointing to a South Carolina student death. Local Risk: After storms, USC research highlights that flooded lithium-ion golf cart batteries can create fire hazards—owners should avoid starting or charging until inspected. Arts Funding: Two Upstate LGBTQ arts groups say they were unfairly denied state grant money after a South Carolina Arts Commission vote. Film Incentives: A controversial Daily Wire action film shot on a shuttered Upstate college campus received South Carolina tax credits, reigniting debate over what productions get support. Real Estate Wholesaling: Missouri joins a broader crackdown on “we buy houses” wholesalers, pushing for clearer seller notices and limits. Nuclear & Industry: Korea-U.S. nuclear plans point to potential construction roles for Korean firms, with implications for U.S. reactor supply chains.

Food Safety: The FDA expanded a frozen-berry recall tied to an E. coli outbreak, adding Great Value frozen organic blueberries and triple berry blend plus Trader Joe’s frozen organic mixed berry blend; the products were sold in many states including South Carolina, and shoppers are urged to check freezers for specific best-buy dates. Public Health: Doctors renewed warnings that energy drinks are risky for kids and teens due to high caffeine, pointing to serious harms like abnormal heart rhythms and sleep problems, and citing the death of a South Carolina student after energy drink use. Consumer/Policy: Missouri joined a growing list of states tightening rules on “We Buy Houses” wholesalers, requiring clearer seller notices and warning that deals may be offered below market value. Energy & Industry: A new push for Korean nuclear investment in the U.S. highlights potential roles for plant builders and reactor construction, with South Carolina-linked nuclear workforce interest continuing to grow. Local Business/Community: Upstate arts groups in South Carolina are speaking out after being denied state grant funding they say were recommended for approval. Sports & Economy Watch: South Carolina football’s latest SEC setback is fueling renewed debate over the program’s direction and leadership.

Food Safety: A multistate recall of frozen organic berries linked to an E. coli outbreak has expanded, with CDC reporting 17 illnesses and six hospitalizations across Florida and Georgia; the updates add more lots of Great Value and Trader Joe’s products sold nationwide, including in South Carolina. Public Health: Doctors are urging scrutiny of energy drink marketing to kids after a South Carolina teen died following high-caffeine consumption, as a new coalition calls on schools and leagues to pause sponsorships and review youth-targeted promotions. Energy & Utilities: A debate over dividend strategy is heating up as Dominion Energy weighs a major merger with NextEra, with investors watching how payout growth versus yield could affect long-term returns. Local Environment: Charleston County is accelerating tree-clearing on Maybank Highway near Johns Island to meet federal timing rules tied to the northern long-eared bat, aiming to reduce impacts during the species’ less-active period. SC Industry & Workforce: South Carolina is set to highlight October as Manufacturing Month, spotlighting career pathways and the state’s push to grow industrial talent. Sports & Community: South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart received a one-game suspension after “egregious contact,” sidelining him for the Kentucky matchup in Columbia.

Manufacturing & Jobs: South Carolina officially proclaimed October as Manufacturing Month, spotlighting the “More To Be Made” campaign and the sector’s nearly $300B economic impact and workforce reach. Wood Products Investment: Adeptus USA plans a $215.56M wood products facility in Anderson County, targeting 217 jobs by mid-2027. Solar Safety Pressure: Fort Mill lawmakers and residents urged state action to stop Silfab Solar from restarting chemical commissioning after March leaks near schools. Diesel Relief for Farmers: SC lawmakers asked Gov. Henry McMaster to consider a temporary state emergency move to ease dyed-diesel penalties during the 2026 harvest as diesel hits record highs. Cybersecurity Outreach: The SC Department of Consumer Affairs announced free October webinars and shred events to help consumers and businesses reduce scam and data-risk exposure. Workforce & Education: SC State students joined the Thurgood Marshall College Fund Leadership Institute to connect with employers and build leadership skills. Data Centers & Local Opposition: A new coalition backed by major tech firms and unions plans to push data center development in states including South Carolina, aiming to counter moratorium calls. H-1B Snapshot: USC data showed South Carolina employers filed 1,557 H-1B petitions in 2025, with the Health Care and Social Assistance sector submitting 77.

Public Health: The CDC reported 3,887 U.S. measles cases as of Oct. 1, up 228 week over week, with South Carolina among 47 jurisdictions reporting cases and 95% of cases tied to outbreaks. Higher Education & Workforce: SC State’s board voted to cut nine degree programs after low enrollment and compliance concerns, as leaders push schools to align offerings with workforce needs. Agriculture & Research: USDA Agricultural Research Service administrator Joon Park visited SC State 1890 Research & Extension, highlighting soil health and crop disease resistance partnerships. Defense & Construction: NAVFAC Southeast awarded a $65.6M contract for a hardened communications center at MCSF Blount Island, modernizing cyber-hardened network infrastructure. Local Business: Mavis Tires & Brakes opened a new Elgin, SC location with brakes, alignments, and tire services. Legal/Policy: A federal court dismissed a challenge to South Carolina’s election integrity law for lack of standing. Consumer/Tax: South Carolina’s five-cent nicotine vapor tax takes effect, requiring businesses to collect it per milliliter of liquid.

Transportation & Growth: Jasper County held a public meeting on a $57M plan to widen Argent Boulevard in Hardeeville from two lanes to a divided four-lane road, with intersection, stormwater, and pedestrian/bike upgrades—neighbors raised concerns about construction impacts and how much closer the road would sit to their homes. Energy Policy: Santee Cooper’s new long-range plan flags rising costs tied to large-load customers like data centers, while critics say it delays cheaper solar and extends coal retirements as it leans toward new gas. Nuclear Workforce: USC and Westinghouse announced a nuclear workforce development partnership tied to USC’s planned Nuclear Innovation Center, including training using AP1000 simulators and hands-on labs. Film & Media Jobs: South Carolina’s Upstate film push got a boost as federal tax-credit proposals advance, with Sen. Tim Scott’s plan aimed at expanding production work beyond Charleston. Utilities & Reliability: Duke Energy restored power after a crash damaged a pole in Spartanburg County, leaving 1,226 customers briefly without service. Housing & Tenants: A new study highlights how landlord-tenant rules differ sharply across the Savannah River region, with South Carolina offering stronger tenant remedies when essential services aren’t fixed. Skilled Trades Gap: A national report warns South Carolina is among states where demand for skilled workers outpaces supply, as training output lags.