The FBI looks to make its expected move to Lexington this fall.

The agency’s Columbia Field Office currently operates out of three buildings spread throughout the area and will be moving into the new building located off Sunset Boulevard (behind the Lowe’s). The facility broke ground in October 2020 with original hopes to begin occupancy in early 2023.

“Watching the building being erected has been an exciting process.” said Kevin Wheeler, public affairs specialist for the FBI’s Columbia Field Office, “We look forward to having a new and improved space to carry out the FBI’s mission.”

According to Wheeler, a majority of the workforce, including special agents, intelligence analysts and professional staff, will be housed at the new location. He said he is unable to disclose a specific number due to security concerns, though mentioned it’s a benefit to have one large space.

He added that particular members will depart for the new office earlier to ensure a smooth transition. Once the full workforce is moved, the FBI will no longer lease its Columbia offices.

“We will not be far from our current location. The majority of our personnel and assets will remain in the heart of the state,“ Wheeler said. “We also have the benefit of working with our local, state and federal partners, many of which are in the same area, to address the threats collaboratively.”

Last year, the Chronicle spoke to Columbia Special Agent in Charge Susan Ferensic, who explained that a process through the General Services Administration governed the selection for the new office’s location. Ferensic mentioned that there are many factors that come into play in the process

Some of these factors included staying close to federal partners, traffic requirements regarding access in and out of the facility, and space for security requirements. 

According to Ferensic, consolidating the Columbia field office into one location will smooth out the operation.

“Our information technology specialists are now having to serve at three buildings throughout the Columbia area,” Ferensic said, explaining that they also maintain the eight resident agencies in South Carolina, which are spread out in Aiken, Charleston, Florence, Greenville, Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach, Rock Hill, and Spartanburg.

“We need to have as many people [as possible] in one geographic area located together. It helps us with our task force initiatives and our administrative business side of the house if that makes sense.”