MetroConnects hosted its latest Developer Forum on Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, bringing together developers, builders, engineers, and community stakeholders for an open discussion on development activity, permitting processes, and infrastructure planning across Greenville County.

The forum provided an opportunity for industry partners to engage directly with MetroConnects leadership and staff on topics critical to supporting growth and development. The utility continues to prioritize transparency and collaboration with the development community as the region experiences ongoing expansion.

Martin Bowen, MetroConnects’ Development Program Manager, introduced the development team and outlined how staff members support project coordination, permitting requirements, capacity planning, and industry best practices designed to streamline development and construction projects.

One of the primary topics discussed was MetroConnects’ ongoing effort to improve project closeout procedures.

“During our last Developer Forum, what we heard most was about streamlining the closeout process,” Bowen said. “We see that as an opportunity for improvement and to provide greater efficiency, clearer communication, and shorter timelines.”

As of Aug. 1, MetroConnects staff were actively managing 131 construction projects. The utility has also approved 131 capacity requests in 2026.

Bowen reported that MetroConnects is working to complete development plan reviews within 10 business days, typically 7days, and encouraged developers to follow established submission checklists to reduce the need for multiple review cycles.

He noted that MetroConnects accepted 99 projects into its system in 2025. To date in 2026, the utility has accepted 27 projects.

For project acceptance, Bowen explained that all developments must undergo inspection testing before becoming operational. MetroConnects has established a goal of completing final testing within 10 days, although inspectors are typically accomplishing the work within five days. Developers are encouraged to schedule testing at least 48 hours in advance.

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspections of sewer lines are generally completed within five to 10 business days, Bowen said.

Inspection activity has remained strong. During the previous 30 days, MetroConnects completed 262 new connection inspections, with most receiving same-day turnaround. During the same period, staff completed 334 final inspections.

Bowen also discussed updates to the utility’s record drawing process. Combining both the Development Inspectors and CCTV review comments.

In addition, MetroConnects is working to improve its legal review process. Now all communication will take place through the PLL Portal.

As MetroConnects continues refining its development processes, Bowen said the utility remains committed to ongoing dialogue with stakeholders through forums and regular communication. He also noted that the PLL Portal, which was launched nearly two years ago, is currently under review and being updated to better accommodate operational needs and future enhancements.

MetroConnects is also planning improvements to its website, with a relaunch anticipated in 2027.

“Strong partnerships with our builder and developer community are essential as our region continues to grow,” Bowen said. “By working together and maintaining open communication, we can better anticipate needs, improve coordination, and ensure critical infrastructure is in place to support sustainable development.”

The Developer Forum is part of MetroConnects’ ongoing effort to strengthen collaboration with the development community while enhancing processes that support responsible growth throughout Greenville County.