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Consultants say Bluffton can support a flexible performing‑arts and events center, but costs and site remain to be determined
Summary
Johnson Consulting told the council a feasibility study shows market demand for a multipurpose performing‑arts and events venue in Bluffton, estimating a 600‑seat main hall and forecasted year‑five attendance of about 55,000; consultants said cost and site recommendations will follow further planning.
Johnson Consulting presented a feasibility study to the Bluffton Town Council on July 8 that concluded there is local and regional demand for a flexible performing‑arts and events venue. Ryan Johnson and Ryan Fetterman said a multipurpose facility — a roughly 10,000‑square‑foot main hall with about 600 theater seats (convertible to 800 for banquet configurations) plus a 3,000‑square‑foot secondary space — could host a mix of performing arts, conferences and private events.
Consultants cited population growth in the area, limited existing indoor venues, and case studies such as the Caine Center and the Peace Center to support the recommendation for a flexible design with technology‑forward seating systems. They projected the venue could host about 226 events and draw nearly 55,000 attendees by year five if programming, partnerships and fundraising are successful.
Council members pressed for cost estimates, transportation impact analyses and potential sites. The consultants said this phase focused on market demand and programming; a financial pro forma, cost estimate and site analysis would be the next steps. They noted comparable projects can vary widely in cost — citing a recent regional example in the mid‑tens of millions — and recommended developing a funding strategy that could include philanthropic capital, grants and naming rights alongside municipal participation.
Council members acknowledged the potential benefits for local graduations, cultural programming and conference activity but emphasized concerns about cost, traffic and the timing of such an investment. The council did not take immediate action on funding or site selection; staff and consultants said they would return with more detailed costing and operational scenarios.
