Plans continue to take shape for a multi-use venue in Horry County expected to bring new opportunities for entertainment, community gatherings, tourism, and emergency preparedness for years to come.
At this point in the Rural Civic Center project, the design team is preparing the technical details of the venue's design.
These renderings highlight several exciting features, including an indoor arena, a fairgrounds midway, and a covered warm-up arena connected to a 200-stall barn. The images illustrate significant progress made in refining the venue’s interior spaces and exterior landscaping, providing a clearer vision of the layout, functionality and visitor experience.
The center's planned location is near Highway 501 and SC-22 in the Conway area, on Hardwick Road.
When completed, the Rural Civic Center will be a versatile destination, designed to host a wide variety of events and activities. The indoor arena will provide space for concerts, rodeos, livestock shows, conventions, expos, community celebrations, and many other special events.
The midway area will offer room for fairs, festivals, farmers markets, craft fairs, and family-friendly entertainment. These events will create valuable opportunities for local farmers, artisans, and small businesses to showcase their products and connect with the public.
Beyond recreation and entertainment, the Rural Civic Center will play an important role in public safety and emergency preparedness. Current plans include a National Guard Readiness Center and a vehicle marshalling area to support emergency management operations. During natural disasters and other emergencies, these facilities will strengthen our community's ability to respond quickly and effectively.
This project represents a significant investment in our county's future. The Rural Civic Center is expected to attract visitors, support local businesses, generate economic activity, and provide a welcoming gathering place where residents can learn, celebrate, compete, and connect.
With the technical design nearing completion, the next step is selecting a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) firm. That process is expected to begin over the next month to help lead the construction phase.
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