Myrtle Beach Lawsuit Over Highway 501 Project Settles

News Summary

A lawsuit involving the Highway 501 realignment in Myrtle Beach has been settled before going to trial. One Heart LLC disputed property valuation in a case against the SCDOT. Although settlement details remain undisclosed, this legal resolution paves the way for ongoing improvements to the highway, which aims to enhance travel for both residents and tourists. As the legal matter concludes, the focus shifts to upcoming infrastructure projects, including temporary road closures for the Arts & Innovation District redevelopment.

Sweet Victory: Myrtle Beach Lawsuit Over Highway 501 Project Reaches Settlement

In a significant turn of events for the residents of Myrtle Beach, a lawsuit concerning the Highway 501 realignment project has reached a buzzy settlement just as it was about to head to trial. The legal skirmish involved One Heart LLC, a property owner impacted by the ambitious project, which sought to straighten out a tricky stretch of Highway 501 that runs through the popular tourist destination.

The Backstory

The rumbles began when One Heart LLC raised a flag of concern over property valuation due to the eminent domain process that came into play as part of this highway improvement initiative. The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) was on the other side of the dispute, having offered a sum just north of $100,000 for the property in question. In stark contrast, One Heart believed its property was valued at a whopping $420,000. To say there was a huge gap in valuations would be an understatement!

What Is the Highway 501 Realignment Project?

This realignment project is part of RIDE III, a major road improvement initiative that got the green light thanks to a one-cent tax approved by voters in Horry County back in 2016. The project aims to align Highway 501 more efficiently, straightening it out where it currently curves at Broadway and Oak Streets. Eventually, it will connect neatly to 7th Avenue North. This is all about making travel smoother for residents and tourists alike, but it comes with hurdles, and this lawsuit was one of them.

Settlement Insights

Although the exact figures of the settlement remain a mystery—staying under wraps—what is clear is that the SCDOT did not comment on the case, leading to some speculation. However, One Heart LLC’s attorney, who led the charge, highlighted that their battle had nothing to do with the downtown revitalization project, easing some concerns for those invested in the city’s future.

Before reaching this settlement, they were ready to present findings from appraisers in court, emphasizing their determination to get a fair assessment. Thankfully for both parties, an agreement was made without the drama of a trial.

Other Developments on Highway 501

As the dust settles on the lawsuit, highway-goers should be aware that a portion of Highway 501 is set for closure soon. This temporary disruption is for the installation of a water and sewer system as part of the Arts & Innovation District redevelopment. Scheduled from January 11 to January 19, the closures will affect Highway 501 between Broadway Street and North Kings Highway, so drivers will need to plan ahead!

Additionally, other road closures will occur on North Oak Street and 8th Avenue North during construction, with teams working tirelessly to enhance the area’s infrastructure. The city is particularly excited about these revitalization efforts, having approved an $81 million bond in October, which earmarked $16.5 million specifically for improvements in the district.

The Future Looks Bright!

While the lawsuit may have brought tension to the proceedings, the focus remains on the future enhancements that Highway 501 and the Arts & Innovation District can bring to Myrtle Beach. With continued upgrades and developments, residents can look forward to a more connected community, making travel easier and promoting growth in one of South Carolina’s crown jewels. Keep an eye out for updates as the road work progresses and stay tuned for more exciting changes in the heart of this coastal city.

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Additional Resources

• WPDE: Myrtle Beach Lawsuit Settlement
• WMBF News: Myrtle Beach Highway Closure
• My Horry News: Highway 501 Roadwork
• WBTW: Serious Crash at Highway 17 Bypass
• Myrtle Beach Online: Local News Update
• Wikipedia: Highway 501 (South Carolina)