Some three years ago, the GADC staff and Board of Directors began to discuss moving from our offices from 233 North Main to Greenville County’s spectacular new campus at the corner of University Ridge and Church Street. Our offices, located above the statue of Mayor Max Heller across from NOMA Square, had been GADC’s home since inception. And while many of us hold fond memories of the space, the prospect of being part of County Square’s new facility was thrilling to say the least.

Thanks to renowned architect Foster & Partners, Greenville County Council and County Administration, the natural light that floods the new building will be a welcome change, while citizens will appreciate features of the space designed to make visits more efficient and enjoyable. 

The 36-acre County Square campus has announced its first major private office tenant as well. Lima One Capital will be part of the largest redevelopment project in the City’s history. Lima’s $51 million investment will add approximately 300 new jobs with their expansion – a successful result after years of discussion with Greenville County, City of Greenville and GADC as Lima One contemplated locations for its new headquarters.

While Lima One is a trailblazer, interest in being part of County Square has exploded. GADC routinely field calls from new corporate projects considering this and other locations in Greenville. Retail and commercial, office, hotel and other mixed uses are designated for a site likely to surpass $1 billion dollars in new investment.

Manufacturing remains our most active industrial sector, especially automotive, advanced materials, life sciences and aviation. But the diversification of our base to include more office and corporate HQ activity continues. The new County Square project finally offers us a campus-like setting to compete with Atlanta and Charlotte for some of these significant office prospects.

Despite remote work trends developed during and after COVID, many companies still seek impressive office locations to influence clients and retain talent. The new County Square project gives Greenville a prestigious and prominent option to help chart the course for our continued economic evolution.

Far more than newly painted walls and modern furniture, the move to the new University Ridge complex speaks to a future vision, public-private partnership, and a make-it-happen mindset that sets Greenville County above all other communities in our country.

J. Mark Farris

GADC PRESIDENT & CEO