News Summary
Governor Henry McMaster has excluded funding for the Interstate 73 expansion from his latest executive budget, marking the second year in a row this project is unfunded. The expansion, which could connect I-95 to the Grand Strand, is expected to boost the economy and create approximately 29,000 jobs. Despite some local support, significant financial backing remains absent, increasing concerns about the future of this vital infrastructure project.
Governor McMaster’s Budget Sidelines I-73 Funding for Second Year
In a decision that’s raising eyebrows across South Carolina, Governor Henry McMaster’s latest executive budget has once again excluded funding for the long-awaited expansion of Interstate 73. This marks the second consecutive year that the budget has turned its back on a project that aims to link I-95 with the popular Grand Strand, opening the doors to easier beach access for locals and tourists alike.
The Background
For those who may not be familiar, the expansion of I-73 is more than just another highway project; it’s a potential game changer for the economy in the region. With a planned route stretching approximately 80 miles, I-73 would not only enhance connectivity between North Carolina and South Carolina’s tourism hotspots but could also create around 29,000 new jobs during its construction phase. Yes, you read that right—29,000 jobs!
Last year was the first time funding for the project was noticeably absent from the state budget, with the governor citing a lack of necessary local support as the primary reason. Fast forward to this year, and the situation hasn’t changed much. The governor’s office has yet again confirmed that financial backing for I-73 won’t be available, repeating the call for stronger commitment from local officials.
Local Support Team Struggles
Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach are waving the flags for support, having both passed resolutions in 2021 pledging their commitment to funnelling funds into the project. Nevertheless, when push came to shove, the Horry County Council turned down a proposed funding scheme in the same year. Their stance? They want definitive promises from federal and other local sources before they dip into their own pockets.
A glimmer of hope appeared when Horry County voters approved a funding mechanism named RIDE IV in November 2024. This initiative included provisions for I-73, contingent on the condition that the state transportation department is able to finalize contracts. However, even as this plan moves forward, the uncertainty surrounding funding structures remains a hot topic.
The Big Picture
With initial phases of construction estimated at a whopping $300 million just to build the first six miles leading to an interchange with I-95, the entire project is projected to cost around $2 billion. Those are some big bucks, and it’s crucial that local officials step up to align their commitments.
Additionally, the South Carolina Department of Transportation has stated that it requires $15 million in state and federal funding to kickstart land acquisition along the proposed route. This is no small feat and poses even more questions about how to generate the necessary backing.
Environmental Concerns
Adding another layer to this complex situation, environmental groups have raised alarms over how the construction of I-73 could impact local wetlands and ecosystems. With pollution risks looming large, these groups are calling for careful consideration of the environmental consequences that could arise.
The Road Ahead
Despite all these hurdles, local councils are still expressing commitment to push forward with plans to add I-73 to the official county map. They are also working on measures to prevent new developments along the proposed corridor. This is critical, as it emphasizes the importance of preserving the area for the future of the highway project.
As discussions continue, especially regarding proposed Ordinance 70-2024 to officially map I-73 in Horry County, the spotlight remains on local leaders and the governor. The future of this vital corridor hangs in the balance, and the conversation about funding and support is more urgent than ever.
Will I-73 finally get the backing it desperately needs? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain—residents and local leaders are ready for a change.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Greenville’s Gateway Project Receives Approval for Construction
Horry County Voters Approve RIDE 4 Initiative
Senate District 33 Race Intensifies with Focus on Energy and Infrastructure in Conway, S.C.
Myrtle Beach Residents Raise Concerns as RIDE IV Road Improvement Initiative Sparks Debate
Horry County’s $6B Road Improvement Projects and I-73 Funding Advance
Horry County Approves $6 Billion Road Improvement Plan Including I-73 Funding
Horry Co. Advances $6B Road Improvement Projects Including I-73 Funding
Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Funding for I-73 Left Out of McMaster’s Executive Budget for Second Year
- My Fox 8: Expansion of Interstate 73 to Myrtle Beach Left Out of South Carolina Budget
- Myrtle Beach Online: I-73 and Local Transportation News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Interstate Highway
- Google Search: I-73 News
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
