Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transportation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
County says RIDE 4 passed, but Highway 31 extension faces funding uncertainty from North Carolina
Summary
Jason Thompson reported RIDE Round 3 project progress and that RIDE 4 passed Nov. 2024; staff said South Carolina will complete to the state line but noted North Carolina's funding and prioritization remain uncertain for the Highway 31 extension to the northern border.
Jason Thompson gave a detailed update on the RIDE transportation program (Rounds 3 and 4), what has been completed, and what remains under construction or in permitting. He highlighted completed dirt road paving (groups 1–2) and resurfacing numbers, and provided a status of major corridor projects and scheduling through 2025 and beyond.
"We have completed dirt road paving for groups 1 and 2, approximately 35 roads with 50 miles paved," Jason Thompson said while summarizing program accomplishments and near‑term deliverables. He reported the RIDE 4 referendum passed in November 2024 with 56.78% support and said collections will continue May 1, 2025.
On the Highway 31 extension, staff told council South Carolina will fund and build its portion to the state line but cautioned that North Carolina has funding constraints and may not pick up the corridor immediately. Council members asked whether funds could be redeployed if neighboring jurisdictions do not follow through; staff said RIDE 4 and future program elements provide some backstop for shortfalls, but the project sequencing and permitting timeline make adjustments complex.
