By: Tracy Sanders, Co-Editor | tracy@thewoodrufftimes.com
WOODRUFF, S.C. — What started as a simple Facebook prompt—“What new event or activity would you like to see come to Woodruff in the new year?”—quickly sparked an outpouring of ideas, memories, and spirited debate among residents. From family-friendly festivals to calls for new leadership, the posts on the Woodruff Times Facebook page revealed both excitement for growth and frustration over a changing community.
A Desire for Festivals and Family Fun
The most popular theme centered on community gatherings and kid-friendly recreation. Many residents proposed large-scale street festivals with food trucks, vendors, and music, hoping to temporarily close Main Street so locals could explore safely.
“An event on Main Street WITH THE ROAD CLOSED!! This would be a great opportunity for local small businesses,” one commenter wrote.
Others championed a bowling alley, skating rink, Big Air trampoline park, or movie theater—anything to give children and teenagers a place to socialize.
“Teenagers and kids have nothing but the park,” said one resident. “Adults have plenty of places to hang out, but not our kids.”
Several people also lamented the slow disappearance of local gathering spots from years past. Memories of the old Abney Gym and the now-closed tennis courts sparked suggestions that these spaces be restored or repurposed.
Rob Valenca, the owner of Wolerine Axe Throwing and Smash’n and Splat’n Rage Room was contacted about the types of entertainment he had for kids. Valenca responded, “… [we] are proud to introduce a fresh take on family fun right here in Woodruff.
We’re excited to offer kids a safe, supervised environment where they can learn focus, and precision through our axe throwing sessions, and channel their energy in our creatively designed rage room. Our goal is to provide an engaging, hands-on experience that builds confidence and encourages teamwork, making every visit a memorable adventure for the whole family. We also offer a great venue for birthday parties and other events.
Tension Over Growth
Not all residents were enthusiastic about bringing new projects to town. A vocal minority blamed newcomers for accelerating growth they say is changing the town’s character.
“For all the new people to leave,” one resident joked (with laughing emojis), prompting a spirited exchange.
“You either grow or you die. Nothing stays the same forever,” replied another commenter, underscoring the divide between those who want to preserve Woodruff’s small-town identity and those who see expansion as inevitable.
Some longtime locals expressed concern about rapid residential development—with new housing, more traffic, and calls for chain stores like Walmart or Target—while others pointed out that such major retailers could harm local businesses.
“If people want a Walmart or Target, there are houses for sale in cities where they already exist,” wrote one commenter. “I just never understood why people move to a small town and then want big-box stores to follow them.”
Historic Preservation and Missed Opportunities
Another frequent topic was historic preservation—or the lack thereof. Several residents mourned the loss of significant community landmarks, including the old Workman Hospital, Mills Mill, and the original Northside School.
“Woodruff is NOT a historical town because the minute something gets old, they tear it down,” lamented one longtime local. They recalled past efforts to list historic structures on the National Historic Register and to repurpose old buildings into community centers.
The plight of the Timrod Library—now reportedly neglected and used by squatters—prompted similar sorrow from those who remember its former significance. One commenter praised local volunteers and city council members who once tried to preserve these buildings, saying more vision is needed to protect the town’s heritage.
Indoor and Outdoor Recreation
Commenters repeatedly stressed a need for improved recreational facilities. Suggestions ranged from indoor pools, expanded gym equipment, and pickleball courts at the Woodruff Leisure Center, to youth leagues for softball or baseball if suitable fields could be developed or restored.
One resident pointed out the Leisure Center’s existing gym hours and fitness equipment but acknowledged it may not meet everyone’s needs, especially for large families or those seeking broader activities like dance classes, batting cages, or youth programs.
Infrastructure Woes and Leadership Concerns
Along with entertainment and recreation, many participants criticized road conditions and leftover debris from recent paving projects on Main Street. A few called for additional traffic measures, such as reducing Main Street to two lanes for safer parking and slower speeds.
Others took aim at local government, suggesting that new leadership or a change in the city manager’s office could usher in more thoughtful urban planning.
“How about a whole new town manager and police chief to start, then we could get rid of town council,” one frustrated resident commented. “Maybe Spartanburg County taking over could give us everything we want.”
Looking Ahead
Despite some heated exchanges, the online discussion revealed one clear truth: Woodruff residents care deeply about their town. Many long for events like a community supper, a music festival similar to Fall for Greenville, or volunteer days to unite new and lifelong residents. Others worry about balancing the desire for growth with preserving Woodruff’s small-town charm.
Whether the call is for a bowling alley, a revived racetrack, a fresh grocery option, or a historical restoration project, locals agree that progress will require vision, collaboration, and a willingness to invest in the common good.
While city officials have not formally responded to each suggestion, City Manager, Lee Bailey emphasized that local leaders do take note of residents’ feedback and explore opportunities as they arise. “Some ideas may be more feasible than others,” he said. “But we appreciate that our citizens care about Woodruff’s future.”Keep an eye on The Woodruff Times as we continue covering the city’s growth and development in 2025 and beyond. Have a suggestion or vision for Woodruff’s future? Reach out and let us know!
Author: Tracy Sanders
