being neighbors with a major research institution is that there’s always forward thinking and new ideas being explored every day.” The numbers tell a compelling story. Clemson University generates $6.4 billion in statewide economic impact, with research expenditures exceeding $334 million annually. Every dollar South Carolina invests in the university returns $35 in economic output. But Blondeau sees beyond the statistics to what makes Clemson distinctive among college towns: its ability to offer metropolitan amenities without sacrificing intimacy. “We hit way above our weight class,” Blondeau explains. “We have amenities that are normally found in much larger cities.” He points to the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, which brings worldclass entertainment to town, and Memorial Stadium, where Division I football draws crowds that triple the city’s population on game days. Lake Hartwell wraps around the community, providing waterfront access rare among inland college towns. The Blue Ridge Mountains rise just 30 minutes away. “Small town charm with big town amenities,” Blondeau summarizes. “I think it’s in Clemson’s DNA to be outdoors and active.” REVITALIZING COLLEGE AVENUE College Avenue serves as Clemson’s commercial spine, where student life meets local business in a concentrated corridor of restaurants, retail shops, and nightlife venues. “We’re looking to do a lot of upgrades to College Avenue, which is pretty much our main commercial corridor,” Blondeau says. “We are currently looking at plans to widen the sidewalks, enhance lighting, make it so that we can have more sidewalk dining activation and make it more event friendly so that we can have more community events downtown.” Blondeau emphasizes the city’s focus on multimodal transportation, connecting various forms of movement throughout the community. When asked about specifics, he confirms the comprehensive approach: “Yes, all of the above,” referring to trails, buses, and bicycle infrastructure working in harmony. This focus on connectivity follows broader trends 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 07 CLEMSON, SC
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