This week, nearly 35 business and civic leaders from across the Charleston and Greenville regions traveled to Washington, DC for our annual DC Fly-In. Over three packed days, our delegation met with top leaders at the Pentagon, Department of Transportation, U.S. Treasury, Coast Guard and Congress to discuss the federal policies and priorities that impact our region’s growth and prosperity.
A Unified Voice for National Defense
Our first day centered around high-level meetings at the Pentagon, where the importance of military readiness and quality-of-life issues for service members were at the forefront. Leadership emphasized the vital role that accessible, high-quality childcare plays in force readiness and asked for community support to help close the gap, especially as hiring freezes impact DoD-run facilities.
We also heard a strong message from Pentagon officials about the importance of remaining a welcoming and patriotic community. Military families don’t always choose where they’re stationed and rhetoric that discourages newcomers undermines support for those who serve. Local governments and employers were encouraged to take advantage of DoD grant programs and support reserve service through workplace flexibility.
Smart Infrastructure, Fiscal Policy & Federal Strategy
Wednesday’s programming featured insights from congressional chiefs of staff, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Department of Transportation. A key takeaway: If you’re seeking federal funding, have a local match ready, focus on growth-oriented projects and present a unified regional front.
From transportation infrastructure to surface bill reauthorization, there was a consistent call from the U.S Chamber and DOT for permitting reform, a priority to speed up projects and stretch federal dollars further.
Our fireside chat with Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, led by Chamber Board Chair, Elizabeth Burwell, was a highlight of the trip. He laid out the administration’s vision for driving down the cost of living through deregulation and reigniting domestic investment. From 100% equipment expensing to prefabricated housing standards, their goal is clear: jumpstart the American economy, build faster and make doing business easier.
Making Connections on the Hill
Wednesday concluded with an well-attended evening reception at the Russell Senate Office Building. Hill staff and members of Congress stopped by to engage with our delegation and hear directly from South Carolina’s business community. It was a fitting end to a full day of relationship-building and policy advocacy.
Building the Coast Guard’s Future in Charleston
At Thursday’s Coast Guard briefing, the development of the new super base in Charleston took center stage. While housing and childcare won’t be built on-site, USCG leaders shared how crucial community support will be to meet the needs of incoming personnel. Lucy Beckham High School’s JROTC program was called a “shining gem,” and we were reminded of the significant contract opportunities expected over the next several years. The Coast Guard asked for our help in ensuring local contractors and resources are ready to compete for and win that work.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in DC and made this year’s DC Fly-In impactful. Your voice is a powerful tool in shaping the future of our region and your participation ensures we are heard where it matters most.
We’re also grateful to our trip sponsors, HNTB, Charleston Regional Development Alliance and South Carolina Federal Credit Union, for making opportunities like this possible.
