The success and popularity of the Newberry Arts Center’s programs meant that participation had grown, and so the NAC needed to expand into a larger physical location. The City of Newberry, aiming to revitalize a blighted grocery store on its Main Street which had sat unused for more than a decade, decided to spend $3.3 million to turn the 13,700-square-foot property into a vibrant, architecturally distinct new home for the NAC. The property offered adequate parking and accessibility, sufficient space for multipurpose layouts, and the ability to host the South Carolina Clay Conference and other meetings.  

Funding for the complex came from accommodations and hospitality taxes, the city’s economic development set-aside funds, the city’s general fund and a state appropriation. Private donations made an outdoor plaza possible. The city made use of in-house expertise and minimal redesigns to the building to keep costs low. CREATE Newberry, a nonprofit promoting community arts access, also advocated for the effort and raised funds for its development.  

The finished product expands on recent investments in the downtown, including the renovation of the historic Newberry Opera House, the creation of the Edward Kyzer Newberry Firehouse Conference Center, as well as infrastructure improvements and private development. With its new and larger space, the NAC aims to further diversify its programs and build more arts organization partnerships.  

Contact Jason Taylor at jtaylor@cityofnewberry.com or 803.321.1000.