Community Spirit Shines Bright in Myrtle Beach’s Racepath Neighborhood
MYRTLE BEACH – The feeling of hope and renewal swept through the Racepath Community on September 30, 2024, as the Racepath Community Learning Center swung its doors wide open once again. This reopening is more than just a revival of a local hub; it’s a beacon of opportunity for the 170 residents living in this vibrant yet often overlooked corner of Myrtle Beach.
“Racepath has always been my home, and I’ve always been proud of Racepath,” said Mike Chestnut, a lifelong resident and local businessman, while reminiscing about the good ole days. His memories of laughter, love, and community spirit are as strong as ever. “I remember Granny Pryor sitting on her porch, always ready to spread some love to the kids playing nearby. That’s what this place is about—community.”
A home for many, Racepath is a 50-acre neighborhood nestled right by Myrtle Beach’s bustling city limits. Strikingly, it’s unincorporated, which means it’s got a different dynamic from the nearby city. “We’re surrounded by the city, but it feels like we’re in another world sometimes,” said Chestnut. Despite thriving local businesses to its north and south, residents often find themselves without basic public services like trash collection and water in the local park’s restrooms.
“What can we do now as a community to make things better over here? Maybe we just need to work closer with the county council,” Chestnut noted. With conversations ongoing regarding infrastructure improvements—like sidewalks and trash pickup—he believes every bit of progress counts.
While the question of annexation remains a tricky topic—largely due to differing tax structures for residents—some local leaders are optimistic about what lies ahead. Discussions about using city services, like street sweepers and regular mosquito spraying, have piqued the interest of residents. “We just want some of the amenities everyone else has easy access to,” Chestnut said.
A Bright New Chapter at the Learning Center
Once the doors reopened, excitement bubbled within the community. Akeem Hemingway, who grew up just two streets away, now leads the Racepath Community Learning Center. “My game plan is for these kids to learn and to have a chance. Opportunity is everything,” he said during the grand reopening.
With revamped spaces including video game areas, reading labs, and cozy cool-down rooms, it’s a radical transformation. “I went to Home Depot and Lowes for supplies, and we managed to make it happen with a lot of late-night work,” Hemingway added, emphasizing the love put into the center’s renewal.
Open Monday through Friday, the center can accommodate about 100 kids at a time and aims to facilitate much more than just an after-school program. “It’s a hub of community energy, and it’s not just about the kids,” said Karen Vassell, a board member. “We also want to impact the overall revitalization of the neighborhood.”
Looking Toward the Future
This Saturday, October 5, residents are gearing up for a beautification day, which promises to foster even more community spirit. “We’re coming together to improve our environment, and this is just the start!” said Vassell, beaming with hope.
Although challenges persist, from infrastructure to community outreach, there’s a palpable feeling of unity and determination in the air. With the Racepath Community Learning Center back in action and neighbors rallying together for a more prosperous future, the essence of community spirit thrives in Myrtle Beach. Every step forward counts, and this neighborhood is ready to embrace it.
