Building Our Future Together
The Sand Shark 20/20 Project is a visionary initiative that celebrates our past achievements and propels us into a future of prosperity and community impact.
Join us in celebrating the next step toward a new destination in the heart of Beaufort and Jasper Counties
Introduction
The Sand Shark 20/20 Project will meet many critical needs in the Beaufort and Jasper
communities. The centerpiece of the project is the construction of a flexible arena
to serve as a home for USCB’s athletics, host various community events and conferences,
serve as an emergency operations center during natural disasters, and provide space
for schools and organizations to host larger events such as graduations.
This multi-purpose arena represents a significant investment in our region’s educational,
cultural and economic future, addressing several current gaps in our community infrastructure
and driving economic prosperity by attracting visitors and stimulating business activity.
Additionally, new facilities on the USCB campus will draw athletic events such as
college and regional baseball, softball and track and field tournaments that will
drive tourism and act as an economic multiplier for nearby hotels and establishments.
The Sand Shark 20/20 Project will enhance USCB’s educational offerings and help attract
and retain talented individuals, contributing to the overall vitality of our area.
Click on the image above to see more detail.
The Arena
- Home for USCB’s expanding NCAA Division II athletic programs, commencement and large-scale academic events
- Versatile space for community events and conferences
- Trade Shows
- Concerts
- Sports
- Catalyst for local economic development
- Venue for large gatherings like high school graduations
Click on the image above to see more detail.
Investing in Our Region’s Future
USCB has demonstrated remarkable growth since it became a four-year university in 2004. The Sand Shark 20/20 project represents the next leap forward in our commitment to education and community service. Just as our previous campus expansion paid dividends far beyond expectations, this new project promises to be a cornerstone of regional development.
USCB has a proven track record of responsible expansion and community impact. Our last major bond, issued 24 years ago to build the current campus, was paid off in just nine years—a testament to the economic growth spurred by the university’s presence. The Sand Shark 20/20 Project continues this tradition of strategic investment in our shared future.
Funding for the Project
The project will be funded by both the state and counties. This funding mechanism will leverage future economic growth within a specific area without raising taxes. This funding method, requiring approval from both Beaufort and Jasper County Councils, ensures that our investment in the future is manageable for our community today.
How it Works
The county funding mechanism will define a region where property tax payments are converted to fees. This approach does not increase taxes; it changes how the revenue from a specific area is allocated. The amount property owners pay remains the same, but a portion of the revenue is directed to fund the project. Approval from both Beaufort and Jasper County Councils is required, but this process does not necessitate a public referendum or school district opt-in. It will also not affect the counties’ ability to fund other projects.