Hey Myrtle Beach: Big Decisions Coming in November!
Residents of Myrtle Beach, get ready for an important moment this coming November! You’ll have the chance to cast your vote on an issue that could have a lasting impact on our roads and infrastructure: it’s all about Ride IV.
What’s on the Ballot?
This November, voters will find one local question hanging out at the end of their ballot. It’s not just any question; it’s about a special 1% sales tax that would help fund a massive list of road projects across Horry County. Essentially, with Ride IV, the county is looking to collect money to tackle those pesky potholes and traffic woes that we know all too well.
The plan is to keep this tax around for the next 25 years or until we hit the jackpot of $6.35 billion—whichever comes first! This will be the fourth time we’re faced with this kind of ballot question, as we already voted on Ride I, II, and III in the past, successfully passing them with flying colors.
So, What Will This Fund?
If Ride IV gets the green light, it’s set to fund some pretty significant projects, including the highly-discussed Interstate 73! We know that I-73 has been on the minds of many around here, and it’s exciting to think how it could change our area for the better. County commissioners have even added the proposed route to the county’s geographic information systems (GIS) map this year—talk about moving forward!
Now, aside from wrapping up what remains from the previous Ride III projects (which alone costs around $150 million), there are also 22 new road construction projects lined up that this new tax could fund. This would also include boosting our public transportation and paving those dusty dirt roads.
Here’s a Sneak Peek at Some Projects:
- Widening SC Hwy 90 to four lanes with turn lanes at intersections—goodbye traffic jams!
- Lots happening with the Barefoot Landing Swing Bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway—yes, please!
- Expanding US Hwy 701 to four lanes and turning intersections into safer spots.
- Widening River Oaks Drive to help ease that congestion.
- Enhancements to public transportation—because everyone loves a reliable ride.
The list goes on and on, with projects aimed at turning our local roads into smoother, safer paths for us all.
When Will This All Happen?
If you decide to vote yes and Ride IV gets approved, the sales tax program, which some folks like to call a ‘transportation tax’, would kick off on May 1, 2025. That means the clock is ticking from then on to gather funds for all those exciting projects.
Final Thoughts
As we gear up for this voting season, remember that every vote counts! Whether you’re stuck behind a traffic jam or dreaming about smoother rides to the beach, this referendum is your chance to make a difference in Horry County’s future. Myrtle Beach, let’s show up and be heard!
