Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Upstate of South Carolina is the fastest-growing region of the state and home to Clemson University, a nationally recognized research and academic institution. Clemson University wanted to build a conference center and economic development attraction for the Upstate region, which would also support the University's desire to accommodate a thriving conference practice. Keenan Development was selected as the private sector partner to develop a unique, $20 million public/private project encompassing an inn, state-of-the-art conference center and golf course.

Keenan Development's transaction structure included the combination of approximately 14 different revenue sources to create a public/private partnership, resulting in 40,000 square feet of conference and meeting space overlooking Lake Hartwell. Included in the project are sophisticated telecommunications and distance learning technologies and auditoriums. The 89 room Martin Inn was developed in conjunction with the center and complements the economics of the transaction with additional revenues and overnight accommodations.

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Rounding out the venture is the 18-hole Walker Golf Course, home course of Clemson University's championship golf team.

As is the case with all Keenan Development projects, the Madren Center, Martin Inn and Walker Course were completed on time and within budget.