Myrtle Beach, January 13, 2026
Myrtle Beach is reconsidering its tourism policies, especially the ‘flushing’ practice on Ocean Boulevard, which has negatively impacted local businesses and visitor numbers. The mayor emphasizes fostering economic growth and ensuring public safety without disrupting tourism, recognizing the importance of a vibrant entrepreneurial environment. The aim is to create a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and support for local entrepreneurs, critical for the city’s economy.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
What major policy change is happening in Myrtle Beach regarding Ocean Boulevard?
Myrtle Beach’s mayor is initiating a stop to the police practice known as “flushing” Ocean Boulevard. This change aims to support tourism and local businesses by removing a policy perceived as detrimental to economic growth.
What exactly was the “flushing” policy on Ocean Boulevard?
The “flushing” policy involved the closure of the northbound lane of Ocean Boulevard, typically starting at 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Its original intent was to enhance public safety and allow swift access for first responders in the busy downtown area.
How did the “flushing” policy impact local businesses in Myrtle Beach?
Reportedly, the policy severely impacted local small businesses along Ocean Boulevard, causing significant challenges. Some establishments experienced sales declines of up to 40% due to reduced foot traffic and vehicle accessibility during peak weekend hours.
Why is the mayor deciding to stop the “flushing” policy?
The mayor is halting the policy due to a clear recognition that it was “killing tourism” and negatively affecting the prosperity of local entrepreneurs. This decision reflects a commitment to balancing public order with economic vitality and fostering a welcoming environment for visitors.
How significant is tourism to Myrtle Beach’s overall economy?
Tourism serves as the cornerstone of Myrtle Beach’s economic framework, with an estimated total economic impact of over $26 billion for the area. In 2024, direct visitor spending reached $13.2 billion, supporting approximately 82,000 jobs across various industries.
Myrtle Beach is taking a fresh look at policies impacting its vital tourism industry, as local leadership moves to re-evaluate strategies along its iconic Ocean Boulevard. This shift highlights a focus on fostering economic growth and supporting the entrepreneurial spirit that defines the Grand Strand.
Mayor Prioritizes Tourism and Local Business on Ocean Boulevard
Myrtle Beach’s economy thrives on its vibrant tourism sector, a testament to the hard work of countless local entrepreneurs and dedicated community members. However, recent policies designed to manage public safety have inadvertently cast a shadow over this crucial industry, prompting a direct intervention from city leadership. The mayor has announced an initiative to halt the practice referred to as “flushing” Ocean Boulevard, citing its detrimental impact on visitor numbers and the prosperity of local businesses. This proactive approach underscores a commitment to balancing public order with economic vitality, ensuring that the heart of Myrtle Beach remains a welcoming and prosperous destination for all.
The decision to reconsider the “flushing” policy reflects a responsive governance model, where the concerns of the business community and the overall economic health of the region are given paramount consideration. It’s a move that aligns with the principles of limited regulation, allowing Myrtle Beach SC business owners the space to innovate and thrive without unnecessary impediments, ultimately strengthening the entire community.
Understanding the “Flushing” Policy on Ocean Boulevard
For some time, a tactic known as “flushing” Ocean Boulevard has been implemented by the city’s police department. This practice involved the closure of the northbound lane of Ocean Boulevard, typically beginning at 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The stated intention behind this measure was to enhance public safety and ensure swift access for first responders to potential emergencies in the bustling downtown area. While implemented with public safety in mind, the consequences for commerce and visitor experience became a growing point of contention.
Economic Impact on Myrtle Beach Small Businesses
The implementation of the “flushing” policy has led to significant challenges for many Myrtle Beach small business owners located along Ocean Boulevard and in the surrounding downtown areas. Reports indicate that these road closures have severely impacted foot traffic and vehicle access, directly translating into reduced sales. Some local businesses have experienced declines in revenue, with certain establishments reporting sales dropping by as much as 40% due to the traffic pattern changes and perceived reduced accessibility. These economic setbacks highlight the delicate balance between urban management strategies and their real-world effects on the livelihoods of local entrepreneurs.
For many small businesses, weekends represent peak earning periods. Disruptions during these critical times can jeopardize their financial stability, affecting employment and their ability to invest in their establishments. The local entrepreneurial spirit, a driving force behind Myrtle Beach’s charm and unique offerings, relies on an environment where operations can proceed smoothly and customers can easily access their desired destinations.
A New Path for Ocean Boulevard: Prioritizing Tourism
In a significant development for the local economy, the mayor of Myrtle Beach has publicly stated intentions to cease the “flushing” of Ocean Boulevard. This decision stems from a clear recognition that the policy is perceived to be “killing tourism,” a sector that is indispensable to the region’s prosperity. This strategic pivot underscores a renewed focus on creating an inviting atmosphere that draws visitors and supports commercial activity without unnecessary restrictions.
The mayor’s stance reflects a dedication to re-energizing downtown areas, promoting visitor engagement, and allowing Myrtle Beach SC business to flourish. By addressing concerns about the impacts of traffic management strategies on tourism, city leadership aims to cultivate a more open and accessible environment. This shift is anticipated to be a positive development for property owners, shopkeepers, and service providers who depend on a steady flow of visitors for their success, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a premier destination for families and vacationers.
Tourism: The Engine of Myrtle Beach’s Economy
Tourism serves as the cornerstone of the Myrtle Beach area’s economic framework, generating substantial financial benefits for both the city and Horry County. The estimated total economic impact of tourism in the Myrtle Beach area is conservatively projected to be over $26 billion. This includes direct visitor spending, which reached $13.2 billion in 2024, marking a 5.3% increase from the previous year. Such figures underscore the immense contribution of visitors to the local economy.
Beyond direct spending, the tourism industry is a major job creator, supporting approximately 82,000 jobs across core and related industries within the Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach Metropolitan Statistical Area. This extensive job market includes positions in accommodation, food services, retail trade, and arts and entertainment, highlighting the diverse opportunities generated by a robust tourism sector. The economic health of Myrtle Beach, powered by its tourism and the resilience of South Carolina entrepreneurs, can also contribute to the broader state economy, including areas like Midlands economic growth, by showcasing successful models of economic development and attracting further investment into the state.
Specialized segments of tourism, such as sports tourism, further amplify this economic engine. In 2023, sports tourism alone generated over $174 million in direct spending within the City of Myrtle Beach. This demonstrates the potential for targeted initiatives to enhance visitor numbers and economic contributions. These revenues also translate into significant tax collections for state and local governments, funding essential public services and infrastructure projects.
Key Features of Myrtle Beach’s Economic and Policy Landscape
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Mayor’s Stance on “Flushing” | Mayor aims to stop the police practice of “flushing” Ocean Boulevard, believing it negatively impacts tourism. | Local |
| “Flushing” Practice | Involves shutting down northbound lanes of Ocean Boulevard on Friday/Saturday afternoons to manage traffic and ensure first responder access. | Local |
| Reported Business Impact | Some businesses reported up to 40% decline in sales due to road closures from “flushing”. | Local |
| Total Economic Impact of Tourism | Over $26 billion estimated for the Myrtle Beach area. | Local (Myrtle Beach area and Horry County) |
| Direct Visitor Spending (2024) | $13.2 billion, a 5.3% increase from 2023. | Local (Myrtle Beach area) |
| Jobs Supported by Tourism | Approximately 82,000 jobs in the Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach MSA. | Local (Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach MSA) |
| Sports Tourism Direct Spending (2023) | Over $174 million in the City of Myrtle Beach. | Local (City of Myrtle Beach) |
Charting a Course for Continued Prosperity
Myrtle Beach stands at a pivotal moment, with its leadership demonstrating a clear commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and maximizing the potential of its tourism sector. The mayor’s initiative to re-evaluate policies impacting Ocean Boulevard, particularly the “flushing” practice, signals a responsive approach to the needs of Myrtle Beach small business and the broader community.
By prioritizing policies that support entrepreneurial innovation and limit unnecessary restrictions, Myrtle Beach reinforces its position as a dynamic destination. This focus not only benefits local businesses directly but also enhances the overall visitor experience, ensuring that the Grand Strand remains a top choice for millions. We encourage all residents and visitors to continue supporting our invaluable local businesses and stay engaged in the ongoing efforts to shape Myrtle Beach’s bright economic future.
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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.
