By VICKI BROWN
In keeping with the state required 10 Year Comprehensive Plan, the county compiled a list of issues that need attention, improvement or construction. County Council approved the list on April 12, and voted to implement the Plan, as well as apply for Community Development Block Grants to fund the projects.
The county has 10 years to complete these projects which will come under scrutiny for an update in five years.
Colleton County Council has chosen to focus on the following planned actions:
1. Public Facilities and Infrastructure: The county needs to improve landfill recycling and boat landing upgrades. Rural water and sewer implementation/upgrades and infrastructure has begun with improvements being made to Venture Park, a planned and zoned commercial industrial area designed to bring industry to the area and boost the economy. Demolition in blighted areas is planned, along with technology research and/or infrastructure, library technology upgrades, and updated technology expansion/upgrades to the county and classrooms.
2. Economic Development: The county will encourage the development of speculative buildings, infrastructure, rail access, yards and spurs, roads, water and sewer near Venture Park and the I-95 Mega Site destined for industry. Plans also exist to make airport improvements involving runways, lights and hangars.
3. Tourism and Marketing: Recent concerns about the issue of litter has caused the county to promote beautification and litter control. Officials also want to encourage visitors to the area and plan to establish billboards and other signage and video advertising.
4. Housing: Affordable housing is an ongoing problem and is being taken under advisement to find solutions to the housing shortage.
5. Public Safety: Many rural fire substations have recently been renovated, and plans are underway to work on more. Fire training facilities, sheriff substations, and coronavirus preparedness, response and recovery are still part of the Plan with major emphasis on pandemics and county response.
6. Roads/Bridges/Drainage: Some roadways are in poor condition and need drainage improvements. Work is already being started on many of those problem areas. Dirt road improvements and culvert repairs are planned.
7. Recreation: More pedestrian/bike trails, boat ramps and parks need improvements and upgrading.
8. Transportation: The I-95 corridor is to be upgraded according to the SCDOT. Land on Maple Ridge Road has been obtained to hold construction supplies for I-95. The county also plans to make intersection improvements, upgrade exit 62/McLeod Road, and make street improvements and sidewalks.
The County Council voted unanimously to adopt the 10 Year Comprehensive Plan and begin working immediately to implement the improvements and upgrades.
