Horry County Residents Approve RIDE 4 Tax to Fund Major Road Improvements

Horry County Takes a Big Step Forward with RIDE 4 Tax Approval!

In a thrilling turn of events for residents and travelers alike, Horry County’s plan to enhance roadways has successfully cleared a major hurdle! Voters have made their voices heard, and they chose to move forward with the new sales and use tax that will funnel funds into the ambitious RIDE 4 program. This pivotal decision was made during this week’s election, and it promises to reshape the future of our community’s infrastructure.

Majority Support Fuels Excitement

With an impressive 57% majority backing RIDE 4, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber has expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the Horry County voters. Jimmy Gray, Chief Advocacy Officer for the Chamber, stated, “We’re very very humbled by this strong result.” The enthusiasm doesn’t stop there! The Chamber and its foundation, Partnership Grand Strand, are excited about what this investment entails for everyone living in Horry County.

“By voting to fund RIDE 4, our community has come together to ensure a safer and more accessible transportation network,” said Tracy Conner, the Chamber’s Interim President and CEO. This means big things are coming for us—improving not just our roads but uplifting our quality of life. Who wouldn’t want that?

What Does RIDE 4 Mean for You?

So, what exactly is RIDE 4 going to do with all that tax money? Well, hold onto your hats! The 1% sales and use tax will stick around for 25 years or until a whopping $6.35 billion has been collected. And what will those funds be spent on? Here’s a sneak peek:

• Widening roads along major routes like Highway 90 and East Cox Ferry Road.
• Improvements on Highway 22 and along the Highway 17 Bypass.
• Paving over 200 miles of dirt roads—an absolute game changer for some local residents.
• The construction of Interstate 73 right here in Horry County, which is quite a big deal!

As if that wasn’t enough, there’s even talk about constructing a new bridge over the Waccamaw River in Conway. Mayor Barbara Blain can hardly contain her excitement, stating, “We clearly need another bridge!” With growing traffic and aging infrastructure, this project is not just a “nice to have”; it’s a necessity.

A Mixed Bag of Reactions

Coastal Conservation League, a notable critic, has voiced its disappointment in the tax’s approval. They fear that this will lead to sprawling development in rural areas, impacting farmland and leading to worse flooding scenarios.

“Families will lose their farmland, communities will be divided,” they lament. Although the league emphasizes the need for prioritizing existing roads and smarter growth strategies, many residents see RIDE 4 as a stepping stone toward progress.

The Road Ahead

With RIDE 4 now in place, there’s a buzz of excitement in Horry County about what’s to come. This newly approved tax is more than just numbers; it represents hope for improved transportation, safer roads, and a better quality of life for everyone who calls this beautiful area home. Buckle up, folks! Change is on the horizon, and it looks like we’re in for a wild ride!