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Pee Dee Region Sees Economic Surge

  //stocks-investing.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/26/pee-dee-region-sees-economic-surge.html
  Published in Stocks and Investing on Thursday, February 26th 2026 at 10:26 GMT by Post and Courier
      Locales: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

Florence, SC - February 26, 2026 - The Pee Dee region of South Carolina is witnessing a remarkable surge in economic growth, fueled by strategic investments, collaborative partnerships, and the dedicated efforts of the Northeastern Strategic Alliance (NESA). Serving Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, and Marion counties, NESA is proving to be a pivotal force in transforming the region into an increasingly attractive destination for businesses and a desirable place to live.

NESA President and CEO Jim Still highlighted the positive momentum, stating, "We're seeing significant job creation and business expansions across the Pee Dee." This isn't just anecdotal; concrete examples of infrastructural development are rapidly reshaping the economic landscape.

Darlington County has recently invested a substantial $15 million in upgrades to a 1,500-acre industrial site. This forward-thinking initiative positions the county to capitalize on emerging industries and attract companies seeking large-scale operational space. The improvements encompass essential infrastructure - roads, utilities, and access - making the site 'shovel-ready' for immediate development.

Florence County isn't lagging behind, having completed a 120-acre industrial park located off Pamplico Highway. This new facility provides another key asset for attracting businesses and solidifying Florence's position as a regional hub. The strategic location offers excellent connectivity to major transportation networks, further enhancing its appeal.

Marion County has also experienced a significant win, recently securing a deal with a company committed to bringing 150 new jobs to the area. This is particularly noteworthy, as it demonstrates NESA's ability to draw investment to even the more rural counties within the alliance. While details of the company and the specific jobs remain confidential at present, local officials anticipate a positive ripple effect throughout the Marion County economy.

NESA's vision extends beyond simply attracting investment. The organization's ultimate goal is to cultivate a region that offers both a thriving business environment and a high quality of life for its residents. This holistic approach is proving successful, as businesses increasingly prioritize locations where employees can enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

A Regional Approach to Economic Development

NESA operates as one of eleven regional alliances across South Carolina, all working in concert under the guidance of the S.C. Department of Commerce. This structure facilitates a unified approach to economic development statewide, while allowing each regional alliance to focus on the specific needs and opportunities within its designated area. "We provide support to the counties we serve and work to coordinate efforts to make the region more attractive to businesses," Still explained.

NESA's strategies center around three core pillars: infrastructure development, workforce development, and strategic site selection. Regarding infrastructure, the organization actively identifies and champions projects that enhance transportation, utilities, and connectivity throughout the region. Workforce development initiatives focus on equipping the local population with the skills needed to meet the demands of evolving industries, often through partnerships with local technical colleges and training programs. Site selection assistance involves identifying and preparing optimal locations for businesses, streamlining the permitting process, and providing essential data and resources.

The success of NESA is inextricably linked to its collaborative nature. The organization facilitates a forum for the seven counties to pool resources, share best practices, and pursue common goals. "It's about working together to achieve common goals," Still emphasized. "We're stronger together than we are apart." This shared commitment and unified approach are crucial for competing effectively in the increasingly globalized economic landscape.

Looking Ahead

The Pee Dee region's economic revival isn't simply a short-term trend. Experts predict continued growth in the coming years, driven by ongoing investment, a skilled workforce, and the strategic leadership of NESA. Future initiatives are expected to focus on attracting businesses in high-growth sectors such as advanced manufacturing, logistics, and renewable energy. Furthermore, the organization is actively exploring opportunities to leverage the region's natural assets - its coastline, agricultural lands, and historical heritage - to promote tourism and enhance the quality of life for residents. The commitment to sustainable development and responsible growth is paramount, ensuring that the economic benefits are shared broadly and that the region's unique character is preserved for future generations.