Myrtle Beach Tackles Workforce Housing Shortage with $150K Grant

As the population of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina continues to expand along with the Grand Strand, the demand for essential workers is on the rise. However, data indicates that many of these vital personnel cannot afford to reside within the city due to the current housing situation.

A Challenge of Zoning

City authorities attribute this predicament partly to existing zoning regulations. As Brooke Morris, assistant to the Myrtle Beach City Manager, explained, “The city’s zoning ordinances do not define workforce housing. And the zoning code does not identify specific areas of the zoning district where workforce housing is needed and would be most compatible with the existing communities.” Consequently, the city plans to leverage a $150,000 grant from the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission to overhaul its zoning system entirely, permitting a higher density of workforce housing.

City leaders anticipate this measure will prove beneficial for the “everyday people” imperative for sustaining the burgeoning population, including nurses, teachers, first responders, and more.

The Role of Zoning Districts

Joey Smoak, CEO of the Eastern Carolina Housing Organization, confirmed, “Zoning districts absolutely play a vital part in the availability of any kind of housing, market rate or affordable, or low income.” He further revealed that his team is collaborating on the workforce housing issue, even as development in Myrtle Beach has surged. However, the availability of affordable housing options for essential workers remains amiss.

By revising zoning codes, Smoak believes there is potential to unlock more housing opportunities in areas previously deficient. “I’m thrilled that they’re looking at addressing zoning and maybe opening up some things or removing some things that hinder certain types of housing,” said Smoak.

Timeline

Brooke Morris has projected that the process of overhauling the zoning system will span around two years. This story is ongoing, and we at HERE News Line will continue to provide updates as information becomes available.

Source: HERE News Network

Author: HERE News