Exciting Changes Ahead for Georgetown County’s Roads!
Georgetown County residents, rejoice! Big things are coming to our roadways, thanks to a recent local sales tax approved by voters in nearby Horry County. This month, residents approved a whopping $6.35 billion transportation initiative that promises to improve roads and infrastructure in our neighboring areas. But there’s a silver lining for Georgetown County too, as this will free up funds for some much-needed projects right here at home.
What’s in Store for Georgetown County?
Mark Hoeweler, the executive director of the Grand Strand Area Transportation Study (GSATS), is optimistic about what this funding can bring to our county. “There are some opportunities for Georgetown County,” he mentioned, and with about $35 million worth of work potentially scheduled between now and 2033, it looks like the future is bright for our roads. The great news is that many of these projects are already funded through other means, which means the money is there and ready to be put into action!
RIDE 4: A Game Changer
So, what exactly is making waves? This new initiative by Horry County, known as RIDE 4, is all about getting major transportation projects underway. It’s a long-term affair that will span 25 years and even includes ambitious projects such as constructing a new road across the Intracoastal Waterway. This could provide some relief for traffic-burdened highways, particularly during hurricane evacuations. State Representative Lee Hewitt pointed out that finding ways to divert traffic through Georgetown County could really lighten the load on our busy roads. Even if it just takes “10 percent of through traffic off the road, it’s a win for Georgetown County,” he added.
Big Plans but Bigger Needs
While Horry County is securing funding for large projects, Georgetown County is trying to catch up. Our county requested $3.3 million for only two projects, which pales in comparison to the over $30 million requests from Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach. This highlights a pressing concern: Georgetown County needs to bolster its requests for the next GSATS 10-year plan, which is due for approval next month. Hoeweler is enthusiastic about providing a “reasonable timetable” for project submissions so our area doesn’t miss out on the new funding available.
Capital Projects Tax Controversy
In what could be viewed as both a blessing and a challenge, Georgetown County voters also approved a 1-cent capital projects sales tax this month. This tax is designed to fund priority projects estimated to cost around $74 million. However, only one road project made the priority list, raising eyebrows among residents who feel that more needs to be done for our roadways. The upcoming $6.5 million widening project on Black River Road, which is part of an effort to ease congestion near Georgetown Memorial Hospital, has stirred up some controversy, especially among those concerned about cutting down oak trees to make way for improvements.
A Look to the Future
State Senator Stephen Goldfinch emphasized the need for Georgetown County to consider a similar transportation tax, akin to Horry County’s RIDE 4, that could significantly benefit our area’s infrastructure. He suggested focusing on a few key projects—like a long-desired four-lane connector to Interstate 95—to truly make a difference in our community. “A mega-project on the east side and the west side,” he described, emphasizing the need for serious investment to improve transportation in our lovely county.
Staying Connect
So, as we watch Horry County gear up for their ambitious plans, let’s not forget that our own journey towards better roads is just beginning. Projects are lined up, discussions are ongoing, and with the right push, Georgetown County will soon see some real progress when it comes to transportation. For those eager to stay in the loop, be sure to keep an eye on the GSATS meetings and your local government announcements for opportunities to voice your opinions and get involved.
Georgetown County is on the road to a brighter future—let’s buckle up and enjoy the ride!
