Horry Co. Advances $6B Road Improvement Projects Including I-73 Funding
Introduction
In a major move towards infrastructure development, Horry County Council is pushing forward with plans to launch over two dozen road improvement projects worth nearly $6 billion. The projects, which span across a 25-year plan, are awaiting the approval of the county’s residents in the forthcoming November ballot.
Details About Major Projects
Among the various projects lined up, the most talked-about one is the Interstate connector I-73. The project, with an estimated cost of $450 million, is expected to construct an interstate highway connecting Highway 22 and the Marion County line.
Interstate I-73 – A Twofold Perspective
The proposed I-73 has proved to be a divisive topic among the community. While some residents consider this interstate connection as a much-needed development to attract larger businesses and industries, others foresee potential issues, arguing that existing roads should be repaired first before venturing into interstate constructions.
Need for I-73 for Economic Growth
As per the Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation, the absence of an interstate and scarce land resources are key factors behind Horry County’s inability to attract big businesses. Citing this, several community members and leaders have voiced their support for the I-73 project. Emphasizing the requirement of an interstate for industrial growth, Mike Wooten, a former SCDOT Commissioner stated, “Every major industry has a checklist… and 10 miles from an interstate is one of the first three boxes on every one of those checklists.”
Environmental Impact of I-73
However, rising concerns about the environmental repercussions of I-73 have triggered debates. Critics argue that while roads might usher in development, they could potentially lead to environmentally harmful industrialization, thereby compromising land and water resources on which the community heavily relies.
The Council’s Stand
However, the council members are firmly supportive of the I-73 project. Councilman Dennis DiSabato shed light on how the project aims to revamp local connectivity, stating, “It’s for helping transform the way people who live in this community get from one side of the county to the other.” Councilman Al Allen voiced his commitment towards fulfilling the needs of Horry County amidst criticism.
Finalizing Projects and Funding
The proposed RIDE IV project awaits a final verdict after which it would be presented in the November ballot for residents’ approval. If green-flagged, a penny tax would fund them.
It is pertinent to note here though, that the state legislature has not sanctioned any funds for the I-73 project. However, the county leaders are positive that the approval of the referendum will compel the state to step in.
A comprehensive list of the proposed projects can be accessed here.
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.
