Spartanburg Marches Ahead in Infrastructure Revitalization with Road Resurfacing Initiative
Take a drive around downtown Spartanburg and you’ll notice a significant difference. The city has been hustling to finish resurfacing work on two major roads and the locals are thrilled. In addition to making the roads smoother for enjoyable rides, local leaders highlight this as a crucial measure to enhance public safety. After all, safe and smooth roads are somewhat of a luxury in South Carolina, especially considering Spartanburg County’s prior ranking among the state’s deadliest roads.
Building Roads, Not Debts
These essential upgrades are just part of a larger initiative, all funded by the countyโs 1 percent local sales tax, lovingly referred to as the “penny tax.” The initiative, which voters first approved in 2017 and extended in 2023, is expected to run until April 2030 and aims to raise around $478 million, funding an impressive 577 identified projects.
Allen Smith, the President and CEO of OneSpartanburg, couldnโt contain his excitement during a press conference held on December 12. He spoke enthusiastically about how these improvements were financed without having to resort to property tax increases or incurring debts. He described how the “penny tax,” paid in part by visitors to the County, is demonstrating significant positive impact on road infrastructure in Spartanburg County.
‘Penny Promises’ Yielding Significant Results
Ever confident in the potential of the initiative, Smith, in his light-hearted manner, describes the project’s progress as “penny promises made, penny promises already kept.โ The highway safety project along Asheville Highway and North Pine Street is an apt example of this, where $16 million federal funding combined with $4 million from the county resulted in significant road safety improvements.
Manning Lynch, Spartanburg County Council Chairman, reiterated the impact of the initiative, highlighting how the projects are completing ahead of schedule. He didnโt forget to mention the inclusivity of the program, thanking voters for their support and stressing that everyone’s voice does matter when it comes to shaping our neighborhoods.
On The Horizon: More Upgrades!
The good news doesnโt stop here. Residents can expect more road improvements in the coming year. Among the projects lined up for 2025 are several major intersection upgrades, innovative roundabouts, and far-reaching resurfacing projects, all aimed at making your Spartanburg drive smoother, safer, and decidedly more enjoyable.
Unfortunately, not all nearby counties have shared Spartanburgโs enthusiasm, with Anderson and Greenville counties narrowly voting against similar initiatives. Yet, even faced with possible future opposition, Lynch staunchly confirms that a third consecutive sales tax referendum would not be proposed while he remains on the county council. One step at a time seems to be his motto – a wise decision that assures thoughtful implementation and time for the community to enjoy the fruits of their collective investment.
Driving Towards a Brighter Future
In closing, the writing is on the road, if you will. The Spartanburg infrastructure revitalization is more than just about laying down fresh asphalt and creating smooth blacktops. Itโs a testament to a community focused on growth, safety, and quality of life; doing so responsibly without imposing major financial burdens on its residents. So, the next time you’re cruising down the newly improved roads, take a moment to appreciate the local effort that went into it, and the optimism that every single “penny” can indeed go a long way toward making life a smoother ride.
