On Nov. 5, 2024, Horry County voters approved the RIDE 4 initiative, a comprehensive transportation program designed to enhance the county's infrastructure over the next 25 years. This approval extends the existing one percent sales tax, projected to generate approximately $6.6 billion for hundreds of road improvement projects.
The RIDE 4 program encompasses a variety of projects aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and improving connectivity across Horry County.
Notable projects include:
Widening of Highway 90: Expanding Highway 90 from East Cox Ferry Road to Little River into a four-lane road with turn lanes at intersections to improve safety and accommodate growth.
Extension of South Carolina Highway 22 (Conway Bypass): Extending the highway to provide a direct route from Aynor to the Surfside Beach and Murrells Inlet areas, enhancing regional connectivity.
Potential Funding for Interstate Connector: Allocating resources to support the construction of an interstate connector (I-73), aiming to improve access to the Grand Strand and bolster economic development.
Widening of River Oaks Drive: Expanding this crucial corridor from two lanes to four, with additional turning areas, to accommodate increasing traffic volumes.
The continuation of the one percent sales tax ensures a dedicated funding stream that's funded mostly by visitors to the area for purchases on accommodations, prepared foods and others. This funding mechanism eliminates the need for property tax increases on local residents.
Expanding road capacity and optimizing traffic flow can reduce congestion, leading to shorter travel times, decreased vehicle emissions and the reduction of traffic accidents and fatalities. Efficient road networks are essential for accommodating growing populations and economic activities.
With RIDE 4 set to commence on May 1, 2025, following the conclusion of RIDE 3 collections on April 30, 2025, Horry County is poised for substantial infrastructure enhancements.
For more detailed information on the RIDE 4 projects and timelines, residents are encouraged to visit the official Horry County website.
www.horrycountysc.gov/ride-4
