The Reedy River got much bigger. | Photo created by Gemini | Made with Google AI
The future’s so bright, we’ve gotta ask ChapGPT. Babies born in 2025 and for 14 years after will be part of a new generation called Generation Beta. These kiddos are expected to live well into the 22nd century, and will be ~76 in 2101 when it starts. That got us thinking... what will Greenville look like in the 22nd century? Like anyone would do, we asked ChatGPT.
Climate adaptation
Greenville may implement systems for flood management and energy efficiency, along with renewable energy sources. Don’t worry, we’ll still experience all four seasons in one week.
Would you ride a high-speed rail? | Made with Google AI
Transportation
Advances in transportation technology, such as autonomous vehicles and enhanced public transit systems, could reshape how residents move around the city. Do we think this will eliminate traffic on Woodruff Road? Only time will tell.
Could this be Gracie Plaza? | Made with Google AI
Community and culture
Greenville may become a hub for arts and culture, influenced by a blend of historical heritage and modern innovation, emphasizing community engagement. Some might say this is already true, and we wouldn’t disagree. Maybe Artisphere should become a national festival.
Community Day | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | Flywheel Coworking Greenville | Free | Take a tour, grab some coffee, enjoy a light lunch, and work from Flywheel for the rest of the day.
Wild Game Beer Dinner | 7-9 p.m. | New Realm Brewing Greenville | $75+ | Chow down during this six-course culinary journey showcasing the versatility of nature.
Friday, Jan. 17
Kid-Friendly Hike Meet Up | 2-3:30 p.m. | Paris Mountain State Park | $4+ | Do some hiking with a pace set by the littlest hikers.
Last chance: Catch the Northern Lights in Columbia
Presented by South Carolina State Museum
This show was created by some of Iceland’s best-known scientists, writers, photographers, and musicians. | Photos provided by the South Carolina State Museum
Time is running out to see “Áróra” — an award-winning cinematic journey following the Northern Lights, now playing at the South Carolina State Museum through Friday, Feb. 28.
Shown inside the museum’s 55-foot digital dome planetarium, this unforgettable, immersive experience highlights the beauty of the aurora not only above Earth, but also on other planets and moons throughout our galaxy.
Psst... Taking a road trip to Columbia is more convenient than traveling to Iceland (or outer space).
The Greenville-Pickens Speedway will not be demolished after a unanimous vote from the Pickens County Planning Commission. It denied RealtyLink’s request to use the land for an industrial park. Developers plan to request approval again in a year. (The Post and Courier Greenville)
Civic
Greenville City Council gave final approval for a new public parking garage in the West End on Howe Street. RocaPoint Partners (the County Square developers) will design + build the 400-space parking garage, which should be complete by March 2026. (Greenville Journal)
Development
Two proposed townhome developments that went before Greenville County Council Monday, Jan. 13 were approved and will move on to the planning commission. The larger development would feature 90 townhomes in Travelers Rest + the other features 62 townhomes off U.S. Hwy.123. (The Post and Courier Greenville)
Number
427,789. That’s how many cubic yards of debris city crews have removed since Oct. 1. You can wave goodbye to the debris pile, because the last load has been picked up. City of Greenville residents can email their questions if they have any.
Concert
May the fourth be with you. The Greenville Symphony Orchestra will perform the score from “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back” accompanying the film on May 4 at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Get tickets.
Try This
Did you miss it during the holiday season? Skating on the Big Ice is back at The Well on Monday, Jan. 20. Tickets are limited, so snag yours now.
Job
Ready to get connected with the best local talent in 2025? We created our community job board just for you. Give it a try by posting your first listing for free.
Active
This 28-day yoga challenge is specifically designed for women aged 40+, with transformative results (think: strength, flexibility, and mental clarity). Try Reverse Health Yoga and save 60%.*
Category
Plan Ahead
Honor Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. has lunch with his mother while visiting Greenville in 1967 | Photo via the Joe Jordan Collection with the Greenville County Historical Society
MLK Community Breakfast | Friday, Jan. 17
| 8-10 a.m. | Younts Conference Center | $50 | Long-time political strategist L. Joy Williams will deliver a keynote address, “Democracy in Action: Unleashing the Might of Political Participation.”
Unity & Community Family Resource Day | Saturday, Jan. 18 | 11 a.m. + 2 p.m. | Phillis Wheatley Community Center| Free | Learn, grow, and connect with organizations and individuals committed to building a stronger, more resilient community.
“The Dream” A Living Exhibit and Tribute to MLK | 12-5 p.m. | McAlister Square | Free | “The Dream” exhibit is a display of a rare photos and images of Dr. King’s most memorable moments all in one room.
The Buy
The Buy
Bananagrams. The award-winning family game is travel-friendly + perfect for all ages. Bonus: Add a little chaos to family game night when you try the party edition features 14 new tiles with challenges and hijinks.
Just for fun, ask ChapGPT to write you a poem where every line starts with a letter of your name. I also told it to make it Greenville-specific. Here’s mine:
Sunlight dances on the Reedy’s flow,
Towering oaks where the cool winds blow.
Every street hums with a Southern grace,
Promise of dusk in this welcoming place.
Holding dreams in Falls Park’s embrace,
All the city’s charm is in its pace.
Never alone, where the river bends,
In Greenville, where old and new friends blend.
Eternal beauty, in mountains so steep,
*A treasure for those who dare to keep.
*This was a bonus line it added for some reason. Share yours with us.