SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Downtown Spartanburg is getting a bigger, greener Morgan Square. City Council signed off Monday, Nov. 9, on an $18.2 million redesign, and crews are expected to start work in early 2027.
Council members voted unanimously on second and final reading. They had also been unanimous on first reading Oct. 26. Bonds backed by the city hospitality tax, a 2% levy on prepared food and drinks, will cover the cost.
Under the plan the square grows by roughly 30%, and the number of trees goes from 54 to 79. City officials said 43 current trees will come out and be replaced. West Main and Dunbar streets next to the square turn into permanent walking space.
Four linked areas will make up the redesigned square, with a small stage, an interactive fountain and, on the Church Street side, a stone wall that water spills down. The Daniel Morgan statue is staying put. Michael Vergason Landscape Architects produced the design.
A separate vote covers a property exchange with the One Morgan Square owner, which will let crews shift Dunbar Street along the north side of the square.
The storefronts and the patio dining zone go first. The city wants dining back open by spring 2027, with the whole project done by spring 2028. Officials said shops and restaurants around the square will remain reachable during construction.
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