Horry Co. Advances $6B Road Improvement Projects Including I-73 Funding
Major Infrastructure Push Underway in Horry County, South Carolina
The Horry County Council of South Carolina has endorsed a second vote of approval for RIDE IV, a comprehensive road improvement plan featuring over two dozen projects. Estimated in total to cost $6 billion, the undertaking would span roughly 25 years. To fund the development, residents are set to decide in a November referendum on whether to accept a sales tax initiative.
The I-73 Project Controversy
Divisions among residents are growing over one project in particular, the I-73 interstate connector. Costing an estimated $450 million, this project would create an interstate highway from Highway 22 to the county line of Marion County. Proponents argue that the interstate is vital to swaying big business towards the area. However, detractors believe that the interstate might have unintended negative repercussions on the community.
While some are eager to see the decades-awaited link to the Grand Strand, others emphasize that improving existing road infrastructure should be a priority over constructing an interstate. As put by one local, “Fix our roads first, then let’s talk about the interstate.”
Interstate – A Gateway to Economic Development
The Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation points at not having an interstate on the map as a leading cause for why Horry County is overlooked in terms of land and business. “Every major industry has a checklist they look at, and being within 10 miles of an interstate is one of the first three boxes on every one of those checklists,” said Mike Wooten, an engineer and former SCDOT Commissioner.
Concern Over Environmental Impact
Other concerns relate to potential environmental damage the I-73 project may bring about. With more roads and consequentially more development, concerns arise over pollution damaging the land and water.
Still, Councilman Dennis DiSabato argues that the goal of the I-73 project is to transform travel within the county, rather than drawing in more tourists. Meanwhile, Councilman Al Allen, a supporter of the project, passionately expressed his commitment to meeting Horry County’s needs despite criticism.
The Future of RIDE IV
The RIDE IV road improvement initiative needs to pass through one more reading before becoming a part of the November ballot. If the residents approve it, the projects will be funded by a penny tax.
No funds have been earmarked by the state legislature to support I-73 at this point, however, county leaders have expressed optimism that the approval of the referendum will urge them to act. The full list of projects under RIDE IV is available for review by the public.
The future of Horry County’s roads hinges on the results of the upcoming referendum, making it a key event for local residents and businesses in the area. With such massive development on the horizon, all eyes will be on the county in the coming months.
