Horry County, SC, February 7, 2026
In Horry County, the stormwater improvement project along Hemingway Chapel Road is making progress, but the recent winter weather has extended the road closure to February 20, highlighting the complexities of public works. This upgrade aims to enhance flood management, benefiting local businesses and residents by promoting economic stability. The investments reflect a commitment to sustainable growth and a resilient infrastructure that is crucial for the region’s future.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
What is the main infrastructure project currently underway on Hemingway Chapel Road?
Conducts a vital stormwater improvement project to replace a single undersized pipe with a more robust system of three 48-inch and one 36-inch concrete pipes. This upgrade aims to significantly reduce upstream flooding and mitigate flood impacts for nearby homes.
Why is Hemingway Chapel Road closed, and what is the expected reopening date?
The road is closed for the ongoing stormwater improvement project, which began on January 27, 2026. Due to recent winter weather conditions, the closure has been extended and detours are expected to remain in place until February 20, 2026.
How will this stormwater project benefit the Conway area and its residents?
This project will significantly reduce upstream flooding and mitigate flood impacts for approximately ten existing homes during substantial storm events. It also forms a cornerstone for economic stability and growth by protecting commercial properties and fostering confidence in the local economy.
How is the Hemingway Chapel Road stormwater project being funded?
Secure funding through a nearly $5.5 million grant from the Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA), which supports five Horry County drainage initiatives. Broader state and local infrastructure developments, including this one, also benefit from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.
Is this project part of a larger plan for infrastructure development in Horry County?
Yes, it exemplifies Horry County’s dedication to foundational infrastructure and is part of a broader effort to modernize essential services. The region is also undertaking other significant economic development and infrastructure initiatives, such as Conway’s downtown revitalization and McKeithan Watershed improvements.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Horry County Stormwater Project Advances, Road Closure Extended
In Horry County, progress continues on a vital stormwater improvement project along Hemingway Chapel Road in the Conway area. This infrastructure upgrade, aimed at enhancing community resilience against flooding, has seen its road closure extended due to recent winter weather, underscoring the dynamic nature of large-scale public works. Such initiatives are crucial for safeguarding local businesses and homes, reflecting a commitment to sustainable growth and robust infrastructure that benefits all.
Local authorities are dedicated to completing the Hemingway Chapel Road project, which is part of a broader effort to modernize essential services. This focus on foundational improvements creates a stable environment where South Carolina entrepreneurs can thrive and existing businesses can operate with greater security, contributing to the overall economic well-being of the region. Delays, while inconvenient, highlight the challenges and complexities inherent in developing the infrastructure necessary for a growing area.
Key Progress on Hemingway Chapel Road
The stormwater improvement project on Hemingway Chapel Road, situated in the Conway area between Raspberry Lane and Augustus Drive, is actively progressing. This critical undertaking involves replacing a single undersized concrete pipe with a more robust system of three new 48-inch and one new 36-inch concrete pipes. These enhancements are designed to significantly reduce upstream flooding and mitigate flood impacts for approximately ten existing homes during substantial storm events. The project commenced with a road closure beginning January 27, 2026.
Despite steady progress, recent winter weather conditions have necessitated an extension of the road closure. While contractors are working diligently, detours are now expected to remain in place until February 20, 2026. During this period, local driveway access is maintained for residents located beyond Raspberry Lane, with other commuters advised to seek alternative routes when traveling between Highway 378 and Cates Bay Highway. This temporary inconvenience is a necessary part of investing in long-term solutions that protect property and improve the quality of life for residents.
The Foundational Role of Infrastructure in Economic Resilience
Robust infrastructure, particularly effective stormwater management, forms a cornerstone for economic stability and growth. In a rapidly expanding region like Horry County, which experienced a 16.9% population growth between 2020 and 2024, such investments are not merely about maintenance; they are about preparing for the future. Enhanced drainage systems protect commercial properties and residential areas from flood damage, reducing the financial risks for Myrtle Beach SC business owners and homeowners alike.
These projects foster confidence in the local economy, encouraging both existing enterprises to expand and new ventures to establish roots. A reliable infrastructure network minimizes disruptions, ensuring that supply chains remain fluid and daily commerce continues unimpeded. This proactive approach to public works underscores a commitment to creating an environment where Myrtle Beach small business can thrive without undue burdens from environmental challenges.
Strategic Funding and State-Level Support
The Hemingway Chapel Road project is one of five Horry County drainage initiatives that received funding through a nearly $5.5 million grant from the Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA). This exemplifies how strategic allocation of resources can drive significant local improvements. On a broader scale, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) has provided substantial federal support for state and local governments to invest in critical infrastructure. South Carolina alone received $2.499 billion in ARPA funding.
A portion of these state-level funds has been earmarked for water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure projects. For instance, the Governor recommended dedicating $500 million of state ARPA funds towards these vital upgrades, emphasizing resilience and capacity for growing populations. Furthermore, the South Carolina Office of Resilience made $55 million of its ARPA funds available to local governments specifically for stormwater infrastructure projects. Projects utilizing ARPA funds are generally required to be completed by December 2026. These investments demonstrate a comprehensive, multi-level approach to infrastructure development, recognizing its indispensable role in the state’s economic competitiveness.
Table: Hemingway Chapel Road Stormwater Project at a Glance
| Project Name | Stormwater Improvement Project |
| Location | Hemingway Chapel Road, Conway area, Horry County (between Raspberry Lane and Augustus Drive) |
| Purpose | Enhance stormwater management, reduce upstream flooding, limit flood impacts to homes |
| Key Improvement | Replacement of single undersized pipe with three 48-inch and one 36-inch concrete pipes |
| Initial Road Closure Date | January 27, 2026 |
| Extended Closure Until | February 20, 2026 |
| Reason for Extension | Recent winter weather |
| Funding Source | Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) grant (part of a nearly $5.5 million grant for five projects) |
| Anticipated Local Impact | Reduced flooding for approximately 10 existing homes during major storm events |
Fostering Economic Growth Through Proactive Development
Beyond the Hemingway Chapel Road project, Horry County and the broader Conway area are experiencing significant economic development. The Myrtle Beach Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) has consistently ranked among the fastest-growing areas in the United States. Horry County’s economic development strategies are centered on attracting, growing, and retaining sustainable businesses, while also unifying public and private sectors to accelerate growth and diversify the economy. This strategic focus is essential for sustained Midlands economic growth and for creating high-paying jobs for local residents.
Conway itself is undertaking various initiatives, including an $80 million downtown revitalization project with plans for private investment and an extension of the Riverwalk, which began construction in August 2025. Another significant project, the City of Conway’s McKeithan Watershed Stormwater Improvements, is funded by a $4.2 million ARPA award from the SC Office of Resilience and aims to provide floodwater storage, improve water quality, and enhance community resilience. These diverse projects collectively underscore a regional dedication to improving the fundamental conditions that enable business success and community prosperity.
Looking Ahead: A Resilient Future
The ongoing stormwater improvements along Hemingway Chapel Road exemplify Horry County’s dedication to foundational infrastructure, which is vital for the long-term prosperity of its communities and businesses. While temporary road closures may present challenges, the enduring benefits of enhanced flood protection and a more resilient local environment are invaluable. These public investments, often supported by state and federal programs like ARPA, are critical for fostering a stable climate for innovation and entrepreneurship. By supporting strategic infrastructure development, Horry County continues to build a robust foundation for residents and businesses alike, ensuring a bright future for the Myrtle Beach area.
Stay engaged with local developments and consider how your involvement can contribute to the economic vitality of Myrtle Beach SC business. Supporting local initiatives and businesses helps reinforce the resilience and growth that define our community.
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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.
