City of Sumter Advances Demolition Efforts to Address Blighted and Unsafe Structures
The City of Sumter continued its efforts in 2025 to address blighted and unsafe structures across the community, using a combination of state and federal grant funding along with local resources. These efforts are aimed at improving neighborhood safety, reducing environmental hazards, and supporting long-term revitalization.
As of January 20, 2026, the City has completed dozens of demolitions through initiatives funded primarily by the Jim Clyburn Grant, Lindsey Graham Grant, and Sumter Pride funding. Progress has included not only demolition work, but also extensive environmental review and mitigation to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
The majority of activity occurred under the Jim Clyburn Grant. Through this program, 58 property releases were signed and title searches completed. Asbestos assessments were conducted on 54 properties, with asbestos abatement completed on 34 structures to date. Those properties have since moved forward to demolition, resulting in 34 completed demolitions under the Clyburn Grant.
Funding for the Clyburn Grant program totals $390,125, with $218,760 contributed by the City of Sumter and $171,365 from Sumter County. These funds support demolition, environmental testing, and asbestos abatement. Additional abatement work for 15 properties is currently in the bidding phase and is expected to continue into 2026.
The Lindsey Graham Grant also saw progress during 2025. Ten property releases were signed, title searches completed, and asbestos assessments conducted. While demolition under this grant is still underway, $11,995 has been spent to date, primarily on environmental and preparatory work.
In addition, Sumter Pride funding for fiscal year 2025–2026 currently has a remaining balance of $30,000. A final list of properties eligible for demolition through this funding source is being completed.
Demolition activity has taken place throughout multiple areas of the city, including South Main Street, Kelly Avenue, Olive Street, Gamble Street, Armstrong Boulevard, Harvin Street, Middle Street, and Green Swamp Road, among others. City officials note that the wide geographic distribution reflects an effort to address blighted properties across all neighborhoods.
Demolition efforts are expected to continue in 2026, with a focus on properties that pose safety concerns, require environmental remediation, or negatively impact surrounding neighborhoods. The City plans to maintain its grant-supported approach as it builds on the progress made in 2025.
