New Ellenton has become the first of two state distribution centers for used government computers.

"We're getting excess computers from DOE (the Department of Energy), EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and other government agencies," said Mayor Vernon Dunbar. "We are going to refurbish them, upgrade them and get them in good working order and distribute them to other small towns along the Savannah River corridor."

The city received 231 computers through the Rural Area Technology Network, which is sponsored by the DOE and EPA as part of their environmental justice program.

New Ellenton will keep about 12 computers and several network printers for public use in a technology center that will open in Ellenton Village Shopping Center on Main Street later this year.

"Our hopes are to set up a technology center where we can do some computer classes, some job training and offer benefits to our citizens," Mr. Dunbar said.

He also said the computers could be used in preschool programs or after-school tutoring sessions.

And the technology center will provide online technical assistance to help residents with energy, environmental, economic development, academic and other issues.

The center also will offer computer and high-speed Internet access, information technology training, online and in-person technical assistance, entrepreneurship classes, business assistance and a small-business incubator.

The small-business incubator will feature work stations with a computer, Internet access, a printer and a phone.

"If (people) have a need to start a small business, they can use that space to get it started," Mr. Dunbar said.

The mayor said the center will benefit people who already have computers, "but they don't really know how to use them."

A second computer hub will be established in Marion County, S.C., later this year.

Reach Betsy Gilliland at (803) 648-1395, ext. 113, or betsy.gilliland@augustachronicle.com.