Horry County’s Stormwater Strategy: Building a Resilient Future

Myrtle Beach, December 30, 2025

Horry County’s proactive stormwater strategy sets landmarks for infrastructure development aimed at ensuring economic health and community safety in Myrtle Beach. The county’s 2025 milestones and 2026 goals emphasize flood mitigation and enhanced stormwater management, directly supporting local businesses and promoting growth. Key projects focus on improving drainage facilities and upgrading aging infrastructure, showcasing a commitment to resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit of the area.

Myrtle Beach

Horry County’s Stormwater Strategy: Building a Resilient Future

Explore how Horry County’s 2025 stormwater milestones and 2026 goals are charting a course for sustained economic health and community safety in Myrtle Beach and beyond. These proactive initiatives demonstrate a commitment to foundational infrastructure, safeguarding the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and private investments that drive our local economy.

Myrtle Beach and the wider Horry County region thrive on a dynamic blend of natural beauty and robust economic activity. In a coastal environment, diligent infrastructure management, particularly concerning stormwater, is not merely a bureaucratic exercise but a cornerstone of economic stability and growth. Horry County’s recently released 2025 Stormwater milestones and 2026 goals underscore a forward-thinking approach to governance, recognizing that a resilient infrastructure protects property, fosters business confidence, and allows the entrepreneurial spirit to flourish without undue concern for preventable environmental challenges.

This strategic planning is vital for maintaining the attractive environment for Myrtle Beach SC business and residents alike. By investing in critical public services and infrastructure, the county lays the groundwork for continued prosperity, allowing small businesses and larger enterprises to operate with greater certainty. Such initiatives are a testament to responsible public stewardship, which understands that a well-maintained public infrastructure is a direct benefit to private sector success and overall Horry County economic growth.

Strengthening Foundations: The 2025 Stormwater Milestones

In 2025, Horry County’s Stormwater Capital Improvement Program (CIP) significantly advanced critical drainage and flood mitigation efforts across the county. This comprehensive program included the construction of major drainage improvements and the systematic replacement of aging infrastructure. A key aspect of the 2025 milestones was the completion of detailed system inventories in older neighborhoods, such as Deerfield, Island Green, and Bucksport, where stormwater infrastructure records had previously been limited or incomplete. The program also made significant strides in watershed-level studies, including the Cartwheel Watershed study, which focuses on addressing capacity limitations and known flooding concerns with infrastructure improvements around Maplewild Road in Nichols. Furthermore, the Crabtree Watershed study is nearing completion, with a finalized report expected in early 2026, aimed at identifying where drainage and flood mitigation improvements can be made.

Several impactful projects were either initiated or completed during 2025 to bolster the region’s resilience. These included the Aquilla Estates subdivision stormwater pipe replacement to tackle aging infrastructure and flooding issues, and ongoing Ashton Acres stormwater pipe replacements, with an estimated completion date of January 2026. The Kayla Circle Drainage Improvement Project was successfully completed in July, effectively addressing flooding problems within the Myrtle Lakes community. Similarly, the Hidden Acres Watershed Drainage Improvement Project, completed in summer 2025, resolved a critical outfall serving the greater Socastee community. Further efforts included the Lafayette Park subdivision drainage improvement project at the intersection of Brandywine Drive, which installed approximately 130 feet of dual 18-inch storm pipes alongside an existing 24-inch pipe to mitigate roadway flooding during frequent rain events. Lake Vista outfall drainage improvements in the Heather Lakes subdivision were also undertaken to address aging and undersized infrastructure, aiming to protect nearby properties, increase hydraulic capacity, and reduce flooding risk. These initiatives align with the State-level goals for SLFRF funding, which include comprehensive infrastructure improvements.

Charting Progress: Horry County’s 2026 Stormwater Goals

Looking ahead, Horry County’s 2026 stormwater goals are designed to build upon the momentum of the previous year, emphasizing continued investment in flood mitigation, roadway safety, proactive maintenance, and data-driven planning. The coming year will see the advancement of multiple grant-funded projects. For instance, the Jones Road project, which is out for bid, is expected to be under contract in early 2026 and will involve replacing three 36-inch reinforced concrete pipes with two 6-foot-wide by 5-foot-high box culverts to help keep stormwater within the existing ditch system during major storms. The Hemingway Chapel Road project is scheduled to begin in early 2026, aiming to enhance stormwater runoff capacity and reduce flooding impacts to approximately 10 homes during major storm events. Additionally, the McCormick Road/Socastee Creek project, expected to commence in June 2026, will address long-standing flooding concerns by adding three 10-foot wide by 5-foot-high box culverts adjacent to the existing bridge. The replacement of an undersized bridge with two 10-foot by 4-foot box culverts at 57th Place is also planned to significantly reduce prolonged flooding in that subdivision. These goals underscore the county’s dedication to creating a more secure environment for its growing population, which has seen an increase of more than 35,000 people over the past two years, making Horry County the second fastest-growing municipality in the nation.

Beyond Stormwater: A Broader Vision for Resilience and Growth

Horry County’s commitment to resilience extends beyond stormwater management to encompass several other vital infrastructure projects that support Horry County economic growth and community well-being. A significant undertaking is the 24th Avenue North Ocean Outfall Project in Myrtle Beach, a $42.6 million initiative substantially funded by State-level grants, with $30 million from the state and an additional $6.8 million received through other grant opportunities and State-level proviso funding. This project aims to consolidate the discharge from 11 existing drain pipes into a single, efficient outfall pipe that extends a quarter mile offshore, channeling stormwater into the Atlantic Ocean. Construction began in August 2024 and is on track for completion by January 2026, with approximately 1000 feet of pipe installed as of September 2025. This will be the city’s fifth ocean outfall and the largest in South Carolina, enhancing water quality and protecting the beach, which is crucial for Myrtle Beach small business and tourism.

Further supporting the community’s infrastructure are ongoing improvements in downtown Myrtle Beach within the Arts & Innovation District. Contractors are actively installing underground utilities, including water, sewer, and storm drainage lines, a project that began in 2025 and is slated to continue through June 2026. These efforts are part of a multi-year downtown infrastructure plan, demonstrating a holistic approach to urban development and sustained economic vitality. Additionally, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Charleston District announced the schedule and starting location for beach renourishment on May 15, 2025, an essential measure for coastal protection and maintaining the area’s appeal. The Horry County Buyout Program, launched in June 2021, also saw Phase 2 of its demolition efforts begin on June 28, 2024, involving 25 properties. This program represents a strategic approach to mitigating flood risks in an area where Horry County experiences the largest number of repetitive losses in South Carolina. Lastly, the State-level budget for FY 2025-2026 includes a provision for the Horry County – Conway to Myrtle Beach Multi-Use Path, which will enhance recreational opportunities and connectivity across the region.

Public Safety and Strategic Planning: Supporting a Thriving Community

The foundation of a thriving economy is a safe and well-managed community. Horry County’s commitment to public safety was further solidified with the selection of an Assistant County Administrator for the Public Safety Division. This administrative focus ensures that public safety initiatives are strategically coordinated, providing a secure environment that is attractive to both residents and South Carolina entrepreneurs looking to invest and grow. Effective public safety infrastructure complements economic development efforts, assuring that both private investments and the workforce are protected.

The integrated approach to planning, from stormwater management to public safety and broader infrastructure enhancements, highlights a commitment to fostering a stable and predictable environment for business. Such a strategic framework minimizes risks for property owners and provides the confidence necessary for local businesses to innovate and expand. These proactive measures, supported by State-level budget provisions for various county initiatives, underscore a collaborative and responsible governance model aimed at maximizing community resilience and economic opportunity.

Conclusion

Horry County’s diligent efforts in outlining its 2025 Stormwater milestones and 2026 goals, alongside other critical infrastructure and public safety initiatives, are fundamental to cultivating a resilient and prosperous environment. These strategic investments in drainage improvements, urban utility upgrades, beach renourishment, and hazard mitigation directly contribute to the stability and growth of Myrtle Beach SC business. By proactively addressing potential challenges, the county creates a predictable and safe landscape where entrepreneurial ventures can thrive and community members can enjoy an enhanced quality of life.

The ongoing commitment to well-planned infrastructure and responsible resource allocation is key to Horry County’s long-term success. We encourage all residents and business owners to stay engaged with these vital initiatives, support local businesses that benefit from and contribute to these foundational improvements, and actively participate in shaping Myrtle Beach’s dynamic economic future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were some key Horry County Stormwater milestones achieved in 2025?

In 2025, Horry County’s Stormwater Capital Improvement Program (CIP) advanced critical drainage and flood mitigation efforts, including construction of major drainage improvements, replacement of aging infrastructure, and completion of detailed system inventories in older neighborhoods. Specific projects underway or completed include the Cartwheel Watershed study, Aquilla Estates subdivision stormwater pipe replacement, Kayla Circle Drainage Improvement Project, Hidden Acres Watershed Drainage Improvement Project, Lafayette Park subdivision drainage improvement project, and Lake Vista outfall drainage improvements.

What are Horry County’s primary stormwater goals for 2026?

Horry County’s 2026 stormwater goals involve continued advancement of grant-funded projects. This includes the Jones Road project expected to be under contract in early 2026, the Hemingway Chapel Road project scheduled to begin in early 2026, and the McCormick Road/Socastee Creek project expected to commence in June 2026. A finalized report for the Crabtree Watershed study is also expected in early 2026.

What is the 24th Avenue North Ocean Outfall Project?

The 24th Avenue North Ocean Outfall Project in Myrtle Beach is a $42.6 million initiative to consolidate the discharge from 11 existing drain pipes into a single outfall pipe extending a quarter mile offshore. Construction began in August 2024 and is expected to be completed by January 2026. It is the largest ocean outfall in South Carolina.

How does stormwater management impact economic growth in Horry County?

Effective stormwater management is crucial for economic stability and growth by mitigating flood risks, protecting property, and ensuring public safety, which in turn fosters business confidence and safeguards private investment. Comprehensive infrastructure improvements are among the State-level goals for SLFRF funding.

What other major infrastructure projects are underway in Horry County?

Other significant projects include ongoing underground utility installation in downtown Myrtle Beach’s Arts & Innovation District through 2025 and into June 2026, beach renourishment, the Horry County Buyout Program which began Phase 2 demolition on June 28, 2024, and the Horry County – Conway to Myrtle Beach Multi-Use Path, a provision in the State-level budget for FY 2025-2026.

Key Features of Horry County’s Stormwater and Resilience Initiatives

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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.