News Summary
A groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation of the Aiken County Recreation Center took place, marking a significant upgrade to enhance community services. With a budget of $3.1 million and support from local government, this project includes a new community center and various modern facilities. The renovations will last approximately one year, fully closing the existing center, but aim to support the growing local population and recreational needs. Future expansions are also planned for further improvement.
Graniteville, SC – A groundbreaking ceremony for the significant renovation of the Aiken County Recreation Center was held on August 1, 2025. The project marks the continuation of discussions that have been ongoing since 2003, culminating in a plan to revitalize the existing facility to better serve the community.
The renovation, which is expected to cost around $3.1 million, has been awarded to J.E. Stewart Builders Inc. of Aiken. The project will be designed by Johnson, Laschober & Associates of Augusta, a firm that brings experience in community-focused design. The plans include the demolition of the existing community center, which has been in use for over 60 years, along with the bathhouse at the outdoor swimming pool.
The Aiken County Recreation Center will be completely closed during the entire renovation process, which is set to last for one year, with an anticipated completion date in May 2026. This timeline is designed to allow the facility to reopen in time for summer programming. The funding for this extensive renovation will be sourced from the Capital Project Sales Tax IV, alongside interest gained from Capital Project Sales Tax II.
The proposed changes will see the construction of a new 5,600-square-foot community center located on the east side of the existing pool, featuring modern facilities for swimmers including changing rooms and showers. A new drop-off zone is also part of the plans, along with an elongated parking area that will run parallel to Jefferson Davis Highway. Notably, while the existing playground is set to remain in place, the outdoor basketball courts will be relocated offering fresh amenities for users.
In addition to the immediate renovations, there are future plans to expand the facility with a sprayground and other amenities, reflecting the county’s commitment to enhancing recreational resources as local populations grow. The facility will also be available for rental events after renovations, offering spaces for occasions such as birthday parties and weddings.
County Parks and Recreation Department Director Mark van der Linden noted the importance of these upgrades in response to regional growth and increasing demand for community engagement spaces. The ceremony attracted various dignitaries, including Aiken County Council Chairman Gary Bunker, local State Representatives Charlie Hartz and Shane Massey, and County Council member Landon Ball. Their presence underscored the significance of the project to the community and the support from government officials.
The project has been met with strong community backing, especially from voters who approved the funding via the Capital Project Sales Tax. The collective effort to create a contemporary and functional space reflects the shared goal of improving community resources and recreational opportunities for residents of Aiken County.
As the Aiken County Recreation Center embarks on this transformative journey, local officials and community members are eager to witness the revitalization of this essential hub for social and recreational activities, reinforcing Graniteville’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all its residents.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Aiken County Recreation Center Makeover
- Wikipedia: Recreation
- WJBF: Aiken County Parks and Recreation New Construction Project
- Google Search: Aiken County Parks and Recreation
- Post and Courier: Graniteville Clairbourne Planning Commission
- Google Scholar: Aiken County Planning Commission
- WRDW: Midland Valley Coach’s Legacy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aiken County South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
