Charleston County is advancing plans for a proposed transportation sales tax in 2026, which aims to raise an estimated $4.25 billion over the next 25 years. This move follows the rejection of a similar tax proposal in the 2024 referendum. In response, the County Council formed a special committee to explore potential infrastructure projects, gathering input from residents, municipal leaders, and stakeholders to establish priorities.
During a workshop on February 4, 2024, county staff presented a draft of the proposed fund allocations. Following this session, the County Council made amendments on February 5, 2024, including a shift in funding between greenbelt and public transportation projects. The council decided to allocate $650 million for greenbelt initiatives and $850 million for transit, while also reallocating $75 million from the Battery Extension project to other infrastructure needs. The council will finalize this draft at their meeting on February 10, 2024 and will seek public feedback for a 30-day period before making any necessary revisions.
Proposed Infrastructure Projects
The proposed infrastructure projects encompass a variety of upgrades aimed at enhancing transportation and flood mitigation throughout the region. Key highlights include:
1. **Charleston**: A significant initiative involves flood mitigation improvements along Lockwood Drive, Hagood Avenue, East Bay Street, Concord Street, and Morrison Drive, part of the Battery Extension Project, with a proposed budget of $225 million. The council has yet to determine the exact funding split between this project and additional drainage improvements along the Calhoun Street corridor.
2. **Southern Pitchfork Construction**: This project aims to connect River Road and Maybank Highway, alongside a roundabout at River Road and Cane Slash Road, with an estimated cost of $65 million.
3. **Glenn McConnell Parkway Overpass**: A new overpass for eastbound traffic at the intersection with Magwood Drive is projected to cost $100 million.
4. **U.S. Highway 17 Widening**: The widening of U.S. Highway 17 from Dobbin Road to Main Road, which includes a shared-use path for bicyclists and pedestrians, is anticipated to require $225 million.
5. **Mount Pleasant Projects**: These include constructing an overpass or high-capacity intersection at U.S. Highway 17 and Houston Northcutt Boulevard, along with adding a right-turn lane from Mathis Ferry Road onto Wingo Way, totaling $230 million. Additionally, the reconstruction of Long Point Road across wetland areas is expected to cost $170 million, featuring left-turn lanes and a multiuse path.
6. **North Charleston**: A new overpass on Rivers Avenue over the rail line is needed to support the Lowcountry Rapid Transit and is estimated at $175.9 million. Other projects in North Charleston include widening Mall Drive and Patriot Boulevard, with respective costs of $100 million and $12 million.
7. **Unincorporated Charleston County**: Finally, the widening of U.S. Highway 17 from Main Road to S.C. Highway 162 is proposed at $220 million.
As the County Council prepares to finalize the proposal, the focus remains on addressing transportation needs while considering community input. The anticipated sales tax is poised to play a critical role in funding these essential infrastructure projects, reflecting the county’s commitment to enhancing mobility and resilience throughout the region.
