Spartanburg County Begins Road Improvements Funded by Penny Sales Tax

Asphalt Dreams Coming True in Spartanburg!

In the spirit of community bailiwick, Spartanburg County has begun making headway improving its roads, backed by a penny sales tax endorsed by the local populace in 2023. “The momentum we’re seeing is truly incredible,” expressed the chairman of the Spartanburg County Council, demonstrating the community’s enthusiasm towards the progress. All the planned improvements are cruising along well whether it’s construction, design, or property acquisition.

The First Two Steps on a Long Journey

Thursday morning marked the jubilant completion of the initial two road improvements in a long sequence of pathways and intersections set for renovation. The aura of accomplishment was evident at Spartanburg Community College’s Spark Center SC campus, with the freshly asphalted Highway 290 lying at its doorsteps. Daniel Morgan Avenue, tucked behind the county courthouse, was another roadway to receive a fresh layer of bitumen. It’s an illustration of commitments secured by the penny sales tax, rolling along smoothly, even slightly ahead of schedule.

Why the Penny Matters

The penny sales tax initiative, which rode to victory on the hopes of 55% Spartanburg voters, was hailed for its significance. The unanimous support from the council members, highlighted the unity of the local leaders, and possibly marked the distinguishing factor from Anderson and Greenville counties where similar measures had faltered. Described as a “relatively pain-free” alternative to property tax increase, the penny sales tax is certainly gaining favor for its facile appeal.

Everyone Chips In

And here’s a noteworthy detail: this tax includes purchases made by non-resident visitors too! “Visitors use our roads, and they should help pay for our roads,” as rightly pointed out. So, each time a visitor drops a penny on purchases, they’re adding to the local road improvement kitty.

A Peak Into The Future

Looking ahead, Spartanburg has its sights set on further renovation projects, such as improving the juncture at Zion Hill Road and Sloans Grove Road, resurfacing West Main Street and Reidville Road, and a bunch of stormwater development projects as well. All in all, a total of 577 intersections and roadways within the county are on the list to enjoy the facelift.

It’s “two down, 575 to go” then. As the county sets its heart on fulfilling its “penny promises“, we see an example of a community shaping its own destiny, using the power of taxation for public good in a transparent and democratic way. It’s inspiring to see yet another instance of what can be achieved when public resources are put to good use by a united community.