Whether you have lived in South Carolina's Upstate region for six months or 60 years, you recognize that this is a unique area that provides residents with a great place to raise a family, go to school, develop a career, and enjoy retirement.
From the natural beauty of its landscape to a spirit of pride and determination to make this a special place to live, learn, work and play, the Upstate has a wide range of amenities that enhance the quality of life for all residents.
While the Upstate has endured many of the same economic struggles as the rest of the United States over the last two years, the region has fared better than most and is well positioned for a strong future.
Recognized nationally as a high growth area for more than 30 years, the 10-county Upstate region that includes the counties of Abbeville, Anderson, Cherokee, Greenville, Greenwood, Laurens, Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg and Union is projected to continue attracting new residents and businesses for many years to come.
As we look toward the future, it is imperative to have a shared vision that illustrates what matters most to current residents of the Upstate and that can help ensure that in the decades to come our region grows by choice and not by chance.
Ten at the Top, a non-profit organization created to foster a spirit of collaboration and cooperation in the Upstate, is spearheading the development of a Shared Upstate Growth Vision. The purpose for creating this shared vision and the ensuing implementation strategy is not to tell cities and counties how they should grow. It is instead intended to provide residents with an opportunity to participate in shaping the future of our region. Having a Shared Upstate Growth Vision that is truly reflective of the values and interests of residents from across the entire region will help elected officials and community leaders understand how their residents envision the future and what elements of a shared vision are appropriate to implement locally and regionally.
Please make sure your voice is heard by participating in a variety of community engagement opportunities throughout the development of the vision and implementation strategy. Check back regularly for a schedule of events and activities designed to develop a vision for the future of South Carolina's Upstate that will ensure that we maintain and grow the quality of life for every resident in this special region.