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State Infrastructure Bank rejects joint resolution on island transportation project; county given short window to respond
Summary
The State Transportation Infrastructure Bank voted March 12 to disapprove a joint resolution submitted by Hilton Head Island and Beaufort County that revised the scope and funding allocation for a transportation project linked to a deficient bridge.
The State Transportation Infrastructure Bank voted March 12 to disapprove a joint resolution submitted by Hilton Head Island and Beaufort County that revised the scope and funding allocation for a transportation project linked to a deficient bridge, officials said at the town's March 13 capital improvement program workshop.
Town Assistant Manager Sean Leininger said the SIB's action was based on the board’s view that the proposed revision conflicted with an existing intergovernmental agreement. "Their comments were that it was in violation of the intergovernmental agreement that they had with Beaufort County," Leininger said.
Why it matters: the SIB decision affects the schedule and funding path for an already-identified deficient bridge and related improvements. Town staff said the SIB offered a limited window—reported at one point as 60 to 90 days—for the county to respond, and county leaders have been urged to prepare a revised intergovernmental agreement (IGA) and supporting materials quickly.
What officials said: Leininger told council that if the SIB had supported the joint resolution, the county would have worked with the SIB to amend the IGA and their agreement with the South Carolina Department of Transportation. "So it may be a teeny bit out of sequence," he said, noting the SIB declined the town-and-county proposal.
Beaufort County officials and state legislators have already discussed the matter publicly. At Beaufort County’s meeting the night before, Senator Tom Davis urged urgency and County Council Chairman John White warned the county would need to respond within a narrow timeframe, Leininger said. Town Manager Mark Orlando said he had spoken with Senator Davis and was seeking to connect with County Administrator Moore for next steps.
Next steps and uncertainties: town staff said the county could submit a revised IGA for SIB consideration, but whether the SIB will accept an amended agreement or maintain the original funding commitment is undetermined. Leininger also noted SCDOT has a separate timing requirement tied to the deficient bridge and that the additional time allowed by the SIB decision will need to be reconciled with SCDOT’s schedule.
What was not decided today: no formal Hilton Head Island council action on the IGA or funding change occurred at the March 13 workshop. Town staff said they are monitoring county activity and will report back when more materials or a revised IGA are available.
Ending: County and town officials face a compressed timeline to craft and submit material for SIB review; town staff cautioned there is no certainty whether the SIB will approve a revised agreement if and when it is submitted.
