South Carolina Poised for Growth: Manufacturing Boom, Measles Outbreak, and Legislative Advances Mark Critical Year-End Developments

South Carolina is experiencing significant momentum across multiple sectors as the state heads into the final weeks of 2025. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety reports seven traffic fatalities on state roadways between December 19 and 21, highlighting ongoing public safety concerns for holiday travelers. Meanwhile, measles cases continue to surge in Upstate South Carolina, reaching 144 confirmed cases as of Saturday, marking a growing health challenge for the region.

On the economic front, South Carolina's business landscape remains robust. According to the South Carolina Department of Commerce, PRET Advanced Materials is expanding its operations in Johnsonville with an 18.5 million dollar investment that will create 74 new jobs. Additionally, a joint automotive manufacturing venture announced a 120 million dollar facility in Orangeburg County that will produce ladder frames for Scout Motors vehicles and generate 392 new positions, further strengthening South Carolina's automotive supply chain. These developments underscore the state's appeal as a manufacturing hub.

The state legislature has been active in preparing for the 2026 session. According to reporting from Statehouse Report, lawmakers have prefiled 327 bills in December, with House members filing 258 bills and State senators filing 69 bills. These proposals will shape policy discussions around education, infrastructure, and economic development when the General Assembly reconvenes.

Education remains a priority for state leadership. The University of South Carolina has approved key renovation projects aimed at modernizing classrooms and improving campus infrastructure. Additionally, the South Carolina Jobs-Economic Development Authority has issued a 20.9 million dollar Educational Facilities Revenue Note to finance construction of a new Fox Creek Middle School in North Augusta, expected to open in fall 2026. State educators are also advocating for 120 million dollars in permanent annual funding for school building improvements and renovations, with particular emphasis on rural facilities.

Infrastructure improvements are underway across communities. Construction continues at One City Plaza in Greenville, with stormwater improvements being made to enhance drainage and building access. Meanwhile, Legacy Traditional School is under construction in Columbia and is scheduled to open in fall 2026, offering tuition-free K through 8 education.

Looking ahead, South Carolina faces several developing stories. The legislature will return in January to address key bills combining education and rural infrastructure proposals with business personal property tax reform. Health officials are monitoring the ongoing measles outbreak closely. Additionally, business development announcements are expected to continue, with multiple companies in advanced materials, manufacturing, and specialty products exploring expansion opportunities across the state's counties.

Thank you for tuning in to this South Carolina news summary. Be sure to subscribe for the latest updates on the state's ongoing developments.

This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease.ai.

Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3Qs

For more check out http://www.quietplease.ai

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI