By PSA Newsroom Staff
The City of Manning, S.C. just took a big step toward sprucing up its downtown. They’ve officially given the green light for Phase I of the Church Street Town Centre & Venue, handing the job to Trident Veteran Construction, LLC, a company out of Mt. Pleasant that won the contract after a round of competitive bidding.
But what does “Notice of Award” really mean here? Basically, it means Manning looked at all the bids and picked the one that fit best with what the city and state require. This announcement doesn’t mean construction crews are rolling in tomorrow. Instead, it kicks off a short stretch of paperwork where Trident Veteran Construction has to tie up a few legal and financial loose ends.
For this project, Manning accepted Trident’s bid from November 18, 2025, making them the official pick for Phase I. Before anything became final, Trident had 15 days to do a few things: sign the construction agreement, hand over the right performance and payment bonds, and show proof of insurance. If they don’t meet these requirements, Manning can pull the plug and keep the bidder’s security. Once all that was all settled, the city issued a Notice to Proceed, and that’s when the clock started ticking.
The (phase1) contract is a lump-sum deal for $1,515,500, though that number will likely increase as change orders are approved for extra work down the line.
So, what’s in Phase I? It’s a pretty big list: new public restrooms, a splash pad for kids, a stage and pavilion, fresh fencing and concrete walking trails, better parking, upgraded lighting and electrical work, improved storm drainage, landscaping, irrigation, signs the works. Hybrid
Engineering, Inc. is overseeing the design and making sure the project stays on track.
Now, let’s talk timing. The contract spells it out. Once the Notice to Proceed is in hand, Trident has 230 days to get the bulk of the work done and 240 days to finish everything. If they miss those deadlines, there’s a price: $500 a day for falling behind on the main work, and $250 a day for any final touches that drag on. These penalties aren’t just for show, they help protect taxpayers from extra costs or headaches caused by delays.
Manning city officials built in other safeguards, too. The contractor has to provide performance and payment bonds, making sure the job gets finished and everyone gets paid, even if something goes wrong. Trident also certified that they played fair during bidding, no shady deals or cut corners. The city won’t hand over the final payment unless the surety company signs off, adding another checkpoint. Plus, Trident confirmed they’ve reviewed the site, the plans, and the laws, cutting down on surprise claims or extra bills later.
If delays do happen? Liquidated damages are the only way the city can get compensated, which means fewer chances for long, expensive court fights.
For people living in Manning, this project is a big investment in making downtown more inviting and useful, a place for the community to gather and enjoy. That $1.5 million (phase1) price tag is no small thing, but the contract makes it clear what’s expected: keep costs under control, stick to the schedule, and stay accountable.
As things move forward and the Notice to Proceed is issued, Manning residents can expect updates from city officials about construction progress and spending. PSA Newsroom will keep watching, making sure the process stays open and public money is spent the right way.
