ACEC-SC Infrastructure Works Institute Unveils Study on Economic Impact of Infrastructure Investments in South Carolina

In response to overwhelming interest from policymakers, business leaders and community stakeholders, the American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina’s (ACEC-SC) Infrastructure Works Institute (IWI) announced in early August 2025 that the full Economic Impact of Infrastructure Investments in South Carolina study is now available to the public at no cost.

Commissioned by ACEC-SC IWI and authored by research economist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen of the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business, the report is the first comprehensive, data-driven analysis of how infrastructure investments shape South Carolina’s economy, workforce and future growth. The study was formally unveiled last month during a luncheon event at The Palmetto Club, where more than 150 guests gathered to hear from state infrastructure leaders and project partners.

Now, the full study, including county-level data, sector-specific impacts and long-term projections, is available at www.infrastructureworks.org/research.

“The response to the report’s findings has been incredible, and our board recognized right away that this data is simply too important to keep behind a paywall,” said Ricky Ward, PE, President of the Board of Directors for the ACEC-SC Infrastructure Works Institute. “Our goal has always been to empower leaders across South Carolina with the tools they need to make informed, future-focused decisions. That’s why we’re making this report available to everyone, because infrastructure touches every corner of our state, and its impact should be understood by all.”

The report, which analyzed more than $33 billion in planned infrastructure investments through 2027, revealed that those investments are expected to generate $56.2 billion in economic impact and support more than 45,000 jobs annually. Long-term projections show even greater returns, with 157,000 permanent new jobs and $16.3 billion in new personal income expected by 2035.

Ward emphasized that the release of the study is just the beginning. “This is not a one-time snapshot, it’s the foundation of an evolving data set that will grow with future updates,” he added. “ACEC-SC IWI is committed to tracking infrastructure’s impact over time to support smarter investments and a stronger economic future for South Carolina.”

For more information or to access the full report, visit www.infrastructureworks.org/research.