City of Orangeburg receives $22.7 million for Railroad Corner

The City of Orangeburg will be receiving $22.7 million that will fund a pedestrian bridge and parking lot at Railroad Corner. Secretary Pete Buttigieg, along with Congressman James Clyburn were in Orangeburg Tuesday to announce the infrastructure grant award which is a part the Biden Administration’s Investing in America plan.

Railroad Corner is a historically significant location in the City beginning as early as the mid-20th century. It was once a thriving hub for African American businesses. It is also a mid-point between the two sites of the Orangeburg Massacre.

Several years ago, the City of Orangeburg began the process to redevelop Railroad Corner. A firm was hired to assist in identifying a developer, public engagement sessions were held, and a conceptual design was chosen. In February, Orangeburg University District Partners was chosen as the developer.

“Each day, we get closer to making our dream of developing Railroad Corner a reality and this grant award marks another special benchmark in that process,” said Mayor Michael Butler. “It is a great honor for us to have Secretary Buttigieg and Congressman Clyburn in Orangeburg for this special announcement. We are appreciative of their support and dedication to making this project a reality for the City of Orangeburg.”