The City of Rock Hill has recently been honored with two 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Awards by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), a testament to the city's effective approach in revitalizing once-neglected sites into areas brimming with opportunity and commerce. The esteemed awards were bestowed upon The Thread and University Center projects, commending their success in real estate development and public-private partnerships, respectively.
In a statement obtained by the City of Rock Hill's official news release, The Thread was announced as a Silver Winner in the Real Estate Development & Reuse category. A clear product of synergy, The Thread has rejuvenated a 400,000-square-foot former textile mill through the combined efforts and a $106 million investment from The Keith Corporation, Springs Creative, Springsteen Properties, and Capitol Broadcasting Company.
The other accolade, a Gold Winner status in the Public-Private Partnership, was conferred upon the Bleachery Redevelopment - University Center's Final Phases. Originally the site of the Rock Hill Printing & Finishing Company, this mixed-use development has been transformed thanks to a public-private partnership that strategically utilized federal, state, and local incentives alongside the creation of substantial infrastructure. This joint venture has fostered over $220 million in investment and the addition of the Rock Hill Sports and Event Center as a tenant, contributing to the economic buoyancy of the area.
During the IEDC 2025 Annual Conference, set to take place September 14-17 in Detroit, Michigan, the awards will be formally presented. "The City of Rock Hill is leading the field of excellence in economic development with these projects," remarked Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO, in recognition of the city's efforts. According to the City of Rock Hill, Mayor John Gettys expressed local pride, noting the "storied pasts and the vibrant energy" that these developments have reintroduced to the community, an achievement now lauded on a global stage.
IEDC, holding the honor as the world's largest economic development membership organization with over 4,500 members, annually recognizes projects that notably rejuvenate communities and push the bounds of economic development practice. The acknowledgment of Rock Hill's Thread and University Center stands as a beacon, signifying that visionary urban renewal can indeed catalyze communities into a future replete with growth and promise.
