Inman City Experiences Economic Growth as New Businesses Open and Population Increases

Inman City Booming as Business Blooms

In Inman City, Spartanburg County, there’s an exciting buzz in the air. Known for its charming downtown district, Inman is attracting more and more businesses year on year. To add to the exciting mix, Inman’s Main Street has a new eatery, The Crepe Factory. This delightful restaurant decided to relocate from downtown Spartanburg to Inman in 2021.

New Visitors, New Opportunities

As the city’s population continues to grow, with an impressive increase of over 1,000 residents forecasted by the year 2027, it’s predicted that businesses here will flourish. A new housing development promising at least 450 new homes and the upcoming Salmon Rail Trail are sure to give businesses a new boost.

The Crepe Factory and Downtown Revitalization

The Crepe Factory’s owner, Denise Mehl, is definitely optimistic about her restaurant’s relocation. She likened Inman’s downtown revitalization to welcoming a breath of fresh air that has brought life to what were once empty buildings. “The trail’s upcoming completion”, she said, “should bring more business.” Noting the rise of foot traffic in the area, Mehl revealed she’s considering opening a second flagship outlet, albeit she’s yet to decide the location.

The Changing Shopping Landscape

Another downtown business making strides is Gifts For All Seasons. The store, run by Sandy Green for the past 30 years, has noticed a change in customer shopping habits. “More and more people seem to be returning downtown to shop, and with the variety of new restaurants, we’ve managed to weather the years of no eateries”, she said. Green is optimistic that the completion of the new rail trail will invite a surge in foot traffic to businesses in the area.

Saluda Rail Trail’s Impact on EconomicProspects

Once completed, the 31-mile proposed Saluda Rail Trail is expected to drive eco-tourism and stimulate investment from small businesses. Inman City’s Administrator, Joe Lanahan, is hopeful about the project, likening its potential positive impact to the economic boost Greenville County’s Swamp Rabbit Trail brought to Travelers Rest. Approximately three miles of the proposed rail trail will run through Inman, promising to spur more economic activity in the area.

City Expansion Plans

Anticipating the population surge and business expansion, Inman City is gearing up. Lanahan revealed that they would need additional personnel in most of the city’s departments. Plans for a new city hall by 2026 are also underway, marking a significant milestone for the city that has always used former buildings for this purpose. The designs for the new city hall are to be developed over the next year. Besides a new city hall, there’s growing excitement among developers about establishing more businesses around the rail trail area.

Driving Future Investment

Inman City’s growth shows no signs of slowing down. Despite economic reluctance from some investors, Lanahan believes the upcoming rail trail makes Inman an attractive prospect. “People want to invest in our community, and they know the significance of the rail trail,” claimed Lanahan. With supporting initiatives like the Main Street Program, Inman City is well on its path to economic growth and a vibrant downtown.