Downtown Pickens Master Plan Update City of Pickens, SC

Project Overview

In November 2020 the Pickens Revitalization Association developed, in coordination with Studio Main, a scope and schedule that outlined a strategic framework plan to update the 2012 Downtown Master Plan, originally initiated by the Municipal Association of South Carolina’s Main Street Program. The PRA recognized opportunities along Main Street for reinvestment that will create a more vibrant commercial district, gathering places for citizens of the community, and a more pedestrian and bike friendly community. The plan includes market-based data that informs the City of the potential to support additional development, before and after drawings of key sites and buildings, plan vignettes, and concepts designed to encourage additional marketing and promotional efforts.

The process for the Master Plan included a two-day planning session that consisted of roundtable meetings with property owners, stakeholders, and elected and appointed officials at the local and County level. The input sessions revolved around understanding the history of Pickens planning, design, and implementation, while asking specifically about Economic Drivers, Economic Visioning, and Action Projects.

The Master Plan report outlined specific goals for PRA, including rebranding to Ascend Pickens Incorporated. Priority capital projects included expanding the Doodle Trail, activating West and East Main Street with outdoor furnishings, art, and signage, and development of funding sources to implement strategic marketing and promotion of Downtown.