Governor McMaster’s Budget Sidelines I-73 Funding for Second Year

News Summary

Governor Henry McMaster has excluded funding for the Interstate 73 expansion from his latest executive budget, marking the second year in a row this project is unfunded. The expansion, which could connect I-95 to the Grand Strand, is expected to boost the economy and create approximately 29,000 jobs. Despite some local support, significant financial backing remains absent, increasing concerns about the future of this vital infrastructure project.

Governor McMaster’s Budget Sidelines I-73 Funding for Second Year

In a decision that’s raising eyebrows across South Carolina, Governor Henry McMaster’s latest executive budget has once again excluded funding for the long-awaited expansion of Interstate 73. This marks the second consecutive year that the budget has turned its back on a project that aims to link I-95 with the popular Grand Strand, opening the doors to easier beach access for locals and tourists alike.

The Background

For those who may not be familiar, the expansion of I-73 is more than just another highway project; it’s a potential game changer for the economy in the region. With a planned route stretching approximately 80 miles, I-73 would not only enhance connectivity between North Carolina and South Carolina’s tourism hotspots but could also create around 29,000 new jobs during its construction phase. Yes, you read that right—29,000 jobs!

Last year was the first time funding for the project was noticeably absent from the state budget, with the governor citing a lack of necessary local support as the primary reason. Fast forward to this year, and the situation hasn’t changed much. The governor’s office has yet again confirmed that financial backing for I-73 won’t be available, repeating the call for stronger commitment from local officials.

Local Support Team Struggles

Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach are waving the flags for support, having both passed resolutions in 2021 pledging their commitment to funnelling funds into the project. Nevertheless, when push came to shove, the Horry County Council turned down a proposed funding scheme in the same year. Their stance? They want definitive promises from federal and other local sources before they dip into their own pockets.

A glimmer of hope appeared when Horry County voters approved a funding mechanism named RIDE IV in November 2024. This initiative included provisions for I-73, contingent on the condition that the state transportation department is able to finalize contracts. However, even as this plan moves forward, the uncertainty surrounding funding structures remains a hot topic.

The Big Picture

With initial phases of construction estimated at a whopping $300 million just to build the first six miles leading to an interchange with I-95, the entire project is projected to cost around $2 billion. Those are some big bucks, and it’s crucial that local officials step up to align their commitments.

Additionally, the South Carolina Department of Transportation has stated that it requires $15 million in state and federal funding to kickstart land acquisition along the proposed route. This is no small feat and poses even more questions about how to generate the necessary backing.

Environmental Concerns

Adding another layer to this complex situation, environmental groups have raised alarms over how the construction of I-73 could impact local wetlands and ecosystems. With pollution risks looming large, these groups are calling for careful consideration of the environmental consequences that could arise.

The Road Ahead

Despite all these hurdles, local councils are still expressing commitment to push forward with plans to add I-73 to the official county map. They are also working on measures to prevent new developments along the proposed corridor. This is critical, as it emphasizes the importance of preserving the area for the future of the highway project.

As discussions continue, especially regarding proposed Ordinance 70-2024 to officially map I-73 in Horry County, the spotlight remains on local leaders and the governor. The future of this vital corridor hangs in the balance, and the conversation about funding and support is more urgent than ever.

Will I-73 finally get the backing it desperately needs? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain—residents and local leaders are ready for a change.