Downtown Master Plan Update | City of Hartsville, SC

We worked with Hartsville leadership to create a citywide master plan update that reflects the community and their vision. This plan is the result of a collaborative and inclusive process designed to unify the community under the guiding principle of “One Hartsville.” Extensive outreach efforts engaged residents, stakeholders, and city leaders through community meetings, workshops, and visioning sessions. More than 370 residents participated in the online survey, and a multi-day charrette provided rich opportunities for direct feedback. These inputs shaped a shared vision and clear priorities for the city’s future.

The planning team conducted thorough data analysis and field studies to assess existing conditions, with a particular focus on the City Center, which emerged as a catalyst for targeted investments. Emphasizing connectivity and community building, the plan outlines strategies for safe bike and pedestrian infrastructure, neighborhood-scale infill, and the redevelopment of underutilized properties. Housing choice for all residents is supported through innovative zoning tools, policies, and partnerships that promote walkable, vibrant neighborhoods.

The plan is deeply rooted in existing initiatives, including the Rail Trail and Kindred Hearts Trail, while also addressing essential infrastructure needs - particularly in water, sewer, and stormwater systems. With the City Center as the heart of Hartsville’s cultural, economic, and civic identity, the plan establishes a clear, actionable framework for equitable development and long-term growth.

Through this planning process, the City of Hartsville gained a bold yet practical roadmap to transform community ideas into implementation-ready strategies. Equipped with targeted investment zones, funding recommendations, and community-informed policies, the city is poised to take confident steps forward. The plan reflects a shared commitment to a stronger, more connected Hartsville - where opportunity, safety, and belonging define the future for all residents.

Hartsville SC Master Plan Update