USC Sumter Adding Outdoor Classroom and Street Scaping
Sumter, SC (03/12/2026) — The University of South Carolina Sumter has two construction projects underway that will not only enhance the appearance of campus but also allow opportunities to better serve our students and community.
USC Sumter recently broke ground on a new outdoor classroom. As part of the recent Science Building renovation, leadership searched for a unique way to further enhance and expand STEM offerings on campus. To address this need, it was decided to take advantage of underutilized space on campus and construct an outdoor classroom.
The covered area is located just outside of the Science Building and will have options for various seating configurations. State of the art technology will be installed for audio visual presentations. Ultimately, the outdoor space will provide a unique and engaging learning environment for USC Sumter students that participate in science courses such as South Carolina natural history and environmental studies. The classroom will also be made available to community organizations for event rentals.
The projected completion date is Spring 2026.
Those passing the USC Sumter campus may have noticed fencing along the south side of campus on Miller Road. This marks the beginning of phase one of a long-envisioned landscaping improvement included in the campus master plan. The goal is to create a sense of arrival for visitors, inviting outdoor spaces for our community, and a more cohesive campus atmosphere.
"These wonderful projects will enhance the student experience at USC Sumter and allow us to better serve the Sumter community. Moreover, they are just the beginning of several exciting projects underway on the campus that will transform USC Sumter in significant and very positive ways," said USC Sumter Interim Campus Dean, Dr. Eric Reisenauer.
The project will establish a refreshed campus frontage with new landscaping, lighting, planting, signage, and a new fountain pool. The design includes a low wall with iron fencing and a series of major and minor columns that will give our entrance a more distinctive and welcoming appearance.
The work will be completed in three phases:
Area 1: Front entrance and bus stop area
Area 2: Fountain and main plaza
Area 3: Remaining site improvements
Fencing and siltfence installation will follow these phases in sequence. The Sumter Farmers Market will remain open during construction and USC Sumter is coordinating closely with the Market to ensure access, layout, and signage remain smooth.
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USC Sumter's new outdoor classroom is part of their recent Science Building renovation and will further enhance and expand STEM offerings on campus.
USC Sumter began construction on phase one of their street scaping project, which will include a new sign and landscaping along Miller Road.