February 7, 2025

Controversial Construction Projects Reshape Horry County by 2025

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News Summary

Horry County is witnessing a significant construction boom with over 17,500 permits issued, signaling a surge in development. Key projects include a new hotel, mixed-use developments, and community expansions. However, not all developments are welcomed, as community protests arise regarding a contentious project in North Myrtle Beach. Residents raise concerns about environmental impact and infrastructure. As growth unfolds, Horry County faces a balancing act between opportunity and community concerns.

Significant Growth and Controversy Surround New Developments in Horry County for 2025

Horry County is entering an exciting phase of ongoing development and transformation as a surge of construction projects aimed at enhancing the Myrtle Beach area progresses. The fiscal year 2023-24 has seen a record number of construction permits issued, validating the region’s growth potential.

Record Construction Boost

A staggering 17,522 construction permits were granted in Horry County during the past fiscal year—a notable increase of over 4,000 permits since 2018-19. This boom in activity brought a construction value totaling $1.54 billion. The surge suggests a robust confidence among developers and an anticipated demand for new residential, commercial, and hotel spaces.

Highlighted Projects for 2025

Several major projects are set to reshape the landscape of Horry County in the coming year:

Ocean 23 Hotel: A new 253-foot high-rise Hilton timeshare hotel is slated for construction at 2200 N. Ocean Blvd. With a total of 227 units—including 113 one-bedroom, 79 two-bedroom, and 35 three-bedroom apartments—this development received approval from the Myrtle Beach City Council.
Mixed-Use Development near Carolina Forest: Planned for completion in 2027, this ambitious project will prompt an estimated 26,572 new daily traffic trips along U.S. 501. Complementing this development, a separate $50 million project aims to widen the highway, enhancing infrastructure.
Auberon Woods Community: Located on a sprawling 758-acre site at Teddy Bear Circle near Highway 90, this planned 1,100-home community promises a rich array of amenities, including a pool and clubhouse. D.R. Horton is set to commence construction on 194 single-family homes starting in 2025, with the overall project expected to reach completion by 2027.
Rêve at Champions Point: This exciting project involves the development of over 226 townhomes on the historic site of the former Myrtle Beach Speedway. The first phase of the built-to-rent community is set for completion in 2025, under the aegis of the Trilogy Investment Company.
North Cove Community: Situated on River Oaks Drive in Carolina Forest, this project aims to replace the River Oaks Golf Club with 220 new lots.

Controversy Brewing in North Myrtle Beach

While growth abounds, not all developments are welcomed with open arms. Residents of North Myrtle Beach are up in arms over a contentious project proposed near Barefoot Resort. The initiative entails the construction of 49 homes within a 58-acre parcel at the intersection of Highways 22 and 31. Locals have banded together to gather 3,000 signatures by February 3 to contest the city’s annexation and zoning decisions regarding this property.

Concerns raised by residents center around potential water runoff issues, risks pertaining to traffic access, and the destruction of vital wildlife habitats due to the construction activities.

New Mixed-Use Developments on the Horizon

Another pivotal addition to the North Myrtle Beach area includes the new mixed-use development dubbed “The Preserve.” This project will introduce 370 luxury apartments alongside 10,000 square feet of commercial space. Meanwhile, GD Marina LLC intends to initiate a major development at Grande Dunes, with plans for homes and commercial properties spanning across 76 acres. Specifics regarding residential units are still yet to be disclosed.

Horry County stands at a crossroads of opportunity and challenge as it embraces significant growth efforts while navigating the complexities of community concerns and environmental impacts. The evolving landscape promises to keep residents and stakeholders engaged—and in some cases, opposed—to the rapid changes underway.