Hilton Head looks to SC communities on renewal

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. (AP) — Hilton Head Island officials have been told to take risks, use public money to encourage private investment and be patient when revitalizing old commercial areas.

The Island Packet of Hilton Head (http://bit.ly/pEIqZw ) reports a town committee heard presentations on urban renewal Monday from other South Carolina communities including Greenville, Myrtle Beach and Rock Hill.

Greenville economic analyst Greg Strait says the nonprofit Greenville Local Development Corporation lured millions in private investment to the Reedy River from 2005 to 2008. Strait says the corporation has revolving loans and grants for new sewer lines and street improvements to help companies expand or relocate.

Hilton Head Island Mayor Drew Laughlin hopes the resort community does something similar. He says an economic development agency would help in renewal while involving the community.

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Information from: The Island Packet, http://www.islandpacket.com