Andrew Cheatham, Edgefield native and recent graduate of the respected Landscape Architecture
Program at Clemson University, will address the June meeting of the Edgefield County Alliance
at 7:30 a.m. on Monday, June 7, 2010 at Piedmont Tech Edgefield campus.  

Mr. Cheatham will discuss the much anticipated plan he developed as a senior project.
 
Mr. Cheatham chose to design a plan for his hometown of Edgefield as a senior project.  Using a combination of research, effective design, planning and community input, he developed a plan that will enhance Edgefield’s current amenities and encourage positive economic growth. Mayor Durham appointed a committee of interested Town Citizens to serve as a sounding board for Mr. Cheatham in developing the plan. 

“We are delighted to have one of our outstanding local young men undertake such a plan for his hometown.  Were we to engage a professional firm to do this, it could cost the Town tens of thousands of dollars,” said Mayor Durham.  

Current economic times have forced many cities and towns to put redevelopment projects on hold.  However, Mr. Cheatham believes there is no better time than now to begin the planning process for revitalization and future growth.  By developing a vision now, communities will be poised to initiate growth strategies as the economic recovery begins.  

The goal of the plan was to develop a viable, attractive and prosperous community for residents and businesses alike, while preserving the natural habitats and cultural aspects that make Edgefield the unique place that residents, natives and visitors already know and love. 

Some areas emphasis in the plan was the enhancement of Edgefield’s already vibrant tourism sector, the further strengthening of Edgefield’s specialty retail sector and the development of a larger medical-related sector.  The plan also examined the entire town and the surrounding area geographically to identify areas for possible redevelopment, including both underdeveloped areas and blighted areas.

Attendance at his presentation in January showed there is much interest in this presentation. All those interested in moving Edgefield County forward in a positive way are invited to participate in the Alliance. 

The meeting will be held Monday June 7, 2010 at Piedmont Tech Edgefield Campus at 7:30 a.m.  Plan to join us for breakfast –a small donation of $3-$5 is suggested to help cover costs. 

RSVP to Linda Anderson at johnnyfanderson@bellsouth.net  or call (803)279-4138 so we can plan accordingly.