Resident urges feasibility study for Lower Florence state-park concept

Jonathan McKnight, area director for Fellowship of Christian Athletes, asked Florence County Council on July 16 to authorize a professional feasibility study to examine whether assets along the Great Pee Dee and Lynch's River and nearby historic Revolutionary War sites could be packaged into a state-park destination.

"I'm not asking Florence County to build a state park. I'm not asking you to spend millions of dollars. I'm simply asking whether an opportunity that already exists deserves a professional feasibility study," McKnight said. He listed local features including Lynch's River County Park, Wellman Golf Club and Revolutionary War landscapes such as Snow's Island as assets that could attract visitors and economic impact.

McKnight cited the state’s SC250 initiative, which is commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, and said a study could let historians, economists, engineers and conservationists evaluate the area's potential. He offered a conservative estimate — citing state parks he has visited — that such a destination at full maturity could deliver “1.5 to 2,500,000 economic impact per year,” and possibly higher under more optimistic assumptions.

Council thanked McKnight for the appearance and did not make an immediate decision on funding or an authorization; his request was presented as a study-only ask to be considered in future committee discussions.