Entertainment complex, gathering space planned for downtown Simpsonville – GSA Business Report

A multi-faceted development with a plaza and indoor entertainment hub is being planned for downtown Simpsonville.

Community Hub LLC, a Greenville-based development company, has unveiled plans for a dining and entertainment complex in the heart of downtown Simpsonville at 136 S. Main St. The development, slated to begin construction in spring 2025, will transform a former service station into a community gathering space that aligns with the city’s ongoing $14 million initiative to enhance the central business district’s attractiveness and accessibility, according to a news release.

“I’ve had the privilege of watching Simpsonville transform over the past 13 years,” said Simpsonville resident David Berger, principal of Community Hub LLC, in the release. “We’ve seen our population grow by more than 22% just since 2020. But what makes this growth special is how we’ve managed to keep our community spirit strong and that’s exactly why we’re creating this space. It’s going to be a place where the locals who’ve been here for decades can share stories with newcomers, where everyone feels like family and where new traditions can take root alongside the old ones.”

The multi-faceted development will have three key features, according to the release:

• Community Hub Plaza, a central gathering space complete with a performance stage, large LED screen, bike parking station and an outdoor bar.
• Restaurant and bar with an expansive outdoor covered patio that offers a gastropub menu featuring local steaks, burgers and tavern entrees. It is a two-level building that will open onto the plaza and serve craft cocktails and regional craft beers. Additionally, it will feature private dining and event spaces that will hold intimate gatherings and large events.
• Indoor entertainment building that will feature duckpin bowling, karaoke studios, darts, golf simulators and a shareable menu. In addition, there will be a large bar and private dining space that overlooks the plaza.

“This new community gathering space is exactly the type of project to build on the vitality we already enjoy in our downtown,” said Simpsonville Mayor Paul Shewmaker in the release. “It’s a great offering that brings people together — with a performance stage, outdoor seating and dining options; this addition to the central business district by Community Hub will only further enhance the vibrancy of downtown Simpsonville.”

The project will be managed by local operator Nate Tomforde, a veteran in cultivating community spaces throughout the Upstate, according to the release. Tomforde brings more than a decade of experience in developing successful venues across the Upstate region. His track record includes establishing one of the first craft beer taprooms in downtown Greenville, playing a key role in launching Southernside Brewing at Unity Park and was pivotal in opening the first restaurant at BridgeWay Station.

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“This project embodies what community spaces should be, a dedication to serving the community – we’re bringing together dining, entertainment and gathering spaces that welcome everyone,” said Tomforde in the release.

Additionally, Community Hub, LLC is committed to philanthropic endeavors within the community. A newly established foundation, managed by a local five-member board, will drive an intentional commitment to give back to the community, the release stated. Their first initiative will focus on bringing public art to downtown Simpsonville.

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