What is the issue?

Dorchester County approved a Penny-Cent Sales Tax program to fund transportation projects throughout the county. Many of these projects include laying more pavement – by widening current roads or building new ones. All impacts must be considered. Are pedestrians safer or given more access to the area? Are driving choices increased through a network of streets? Is congestion relieved? When the answers are no, we believe the projects need to be revisited and restudied. Laying pavement is expensive for taxpayers and environmental costly as well: wetlands and grand trees may be impacted, and impervious surface cover increases which in turn affects water quality. Transportation issues must be thoroughly vetted and considered simultaneously with associated land use so roads and residences support each other.

How would it affect South Carolina?

Taxpayer money and state money funds transportation projects throughout the state. Once Dorchester County has funded road projects, SCDOT pays to maintain them. Residents and visitors to Dorchester County are also affected by increased traffic congestion, accidents and the impact to their landscape.

What can you do about it?

Speak up! Dorchester County Council has approved 1st reading of their Master Transportation Plan. Our goal is to ensure this transportation plan continually supports land use elements and recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan. As Dorchester County residents it is important to be involved with your local Transportation Advisory Group and let engineers, planners and County Council members know your thoughts and ideas for road projects in the area – even once this plan is in place. The master transportation plan advocates for street standards, buses and rail, pedestrian and bicycle access and may well be the beginning for smart transportation planning in Dorchester County.

Related Articles