Upper Savannah Council of Governments

The Upper Savannah Council of Governments (USCOG) is a multi-county planning and development organization located in South Carolina. It was the first such organization to be established in the state and operates as part of the South Carolina Councils of Governments (SCCOGs) system, which comprises ten sub-state regional councils.

Overview

The Upper Savannah region encompasses six counties: Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, McCormick, and Saluda. USCOG serves as the umbrella administrative organization for regional activities, offering a wide range of services and functions. It has representation from local and state governments on its Board of Directors and works closely with local, state, and federal government agencies.

Functions

• Assistance to Vulnerable Populations: USCOG provides services to senior citizens and persons with disabilities, aiming to enhance their quality of life.
• Workforce Development: The organization assists employers and job seekers by offering workforce development programs, supporting economic growth within the region.
• Community Development: USCOG focuses on infrastructure improvements and community enhancements through grant writing and administration.
• Economic Development: It facilitates economic development activities, including loans to small businesses, to create and save jobs. The organization also identifies solutions to regional challenges and provides consultation and technical assistance to local governments.
• Transportation Planning: USCOG collaborates with the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) to plan and improve regional transportation systems, including highway infrastructure and public transit.

Transportation Initiatives

USCOG is committed to supporting a multi-modal transportation system that enhances mobility within the region. Key initiatives include:

• Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP): This comprehensive plan outlines the transportation goals and needs for the region.
• Transportation Improvement Program (TIP): This program details projects scheduled for construction over a seven-year period, ensuring alignment with state and federal funding priorities.
• Rural Planning Work Program (RPWP): This program addresses specific transportation planning tasks as guided by SCDOT and the USCOG Board.

Economic Development Initiatives

The Economic Development Division of USCOG assists in developing and implementing projects that stimulate private sector investment and create permanent jobs. Notable projects include:

• Saluda County Water & Sewer Authority Regional Sewer Collection System: Funded by a significant EDA grant, this project enhanced infrastructure supporting local businesses.
• Edgefield County Regional Sewer Collection System: Another EDA funded project that upgraded sewer infrastructure to support economic growth. USCOG also operates small business loan programs designed to help businesses start up or expand, promoting economic recovery and development in the region.

Community and Government Services

USCOG prepares a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the region and assists cities and counties in securing state and federal grants. Additionally, it offers training for local officials, contributing to stronger community development through partnerships with the Municipal Association of South Carolina and the state planning association.