Fountain Inn wins MASC Municipal Achievement Award
August 4, 2024
The City of Fountain Inn has received a Municipal Achievement Award for the renovated Sanctified Hill Park. The city won in the 10,001 – 20,000 population category. Forty cities and towns submitted their projects and initiatives for consideration in the annual awards.
Located in Fountain Inn’s historically Black community, Sanctified Hill Park suffered from a legacy of neglect. Once an unofficial town dump, soil tests revealed layers of trash beneath the surface. In the 1970s, the city used dirt to cap the trash and added basic amenities. Even so, the park remained a symbol of inequitable investment for decades, and developed a reputation for gang activity and crime.
Golden View Baptist Church became an early leader for restoring the park, taking on maintenance responsibilities. In 2020, the city prioritized its revitalization, driven by a steering committee with the church and other stakeholders, and kicking off the process with a block party.
The grand reopening of the park came in May 2023. The park is now a vibrant public space that is home to modern playground equipment, including a playground for younger children and another for older children; two basketball courts; a paved walking path; a large lawn; restrooms and two picnic pavilions.
Strategic planning allowed for efficient execution of most of the refurbishment work in the initial phase of the project, using $2.5 million in state funding, and additional contributions from Laurens County American Rescue Plan Act funds and capital sales tax revenue.
“The transformation of Sanctified Hill Park promotes inclusivity and strengthens community pride within the City of Fountain Inn,” said Todd Glover, executive director for the Municipal Association.
These winning entries represent innovative projects undertaken by Municipal Association member cities and towns. Information and a video about the project are available on the Association’s website www.masc.sc (keyword: Achievement Awards).
The Municipal Association of SC initiated the Achievement Awards in 1987 to recognize and encourage innovations and excellence in local government.
