South Carolina State University (SC State) is set to expand its footprint in the Midlands by establishing a new research facility in Cayce. The announcement was made by the City of Cayce, highlighting the university’s commitment to enhancing its research capabilities and community impact.
The new facility will encompass 42,000 square feet and will be situated off Charleston Highway. It will serve as the headquarters for SC State’s Centre for Food Safety & Health. The facility will also include classrooms, a conference center with a capacity of 150 to 200 seats, a professional-grade television and radio studio, and accommodations for visiting scientists. Additionally, the USDA’s Rural Development department will have a presence at the site.
Louis Whitesides, vice president for public service and agriculture and executive director of 1890 Research & Extension at SC State, emphasized the significance of the project. “This isn’t just about a building,” he stated. “It’s about building capacity for research, workforce development, and the communities we serve. When legislators and community members see this facility in operation, they’ll see public investment at work in real time.”
This initiative aligns with SC State’s goal of establishing a presence in all 46 counties of South Carolina by 2030. The construction of the facility is expected to involve over 100 workers and will create between 50 to 70 new jobs in collaboration with the USDA and SC State.
Economic benefits for the City of Cayce are also anticipated, with projections indicating a multimillion-dollar increase in local economic activity across various sectors, including housing, retail, and dining. Luke Godbold, director of development services for the City of Cayce, expressed enthusiasm about the project. “The City of Cayce is very excited to see such an amazing project by South Carolina State University in the works,” he noted. “Not only does it bring highly specialized jobs, it delivers a much-welcomed boost of revitalization. We look forward to the grand opening and future collaboration opportunities. The City of Cayce is open for business.”
Construction of the new facility is expected to be completed by late 2026, with plans for full operational status beginning in January 2027. This development is seen as a pivotal step for SC State and the local community, underscoring the importance of educational institutions in driving economic growth and innovation.
