Fort Mill Begins Long-Awaited U.S. 21 Bypass Improvements, Prepares for Key November Referendum

Fort Mill Kicks Off U.S. 21 Bypass Improvements

Fort Mill, SC — The much-anticipated road improvements for the U.S. 21 Bypass in Fort Mill have officially begun as of summer 2024. The project has been in the pipeline for over a decade, following the approval of funding by York County voters through the Pennies for Progress program in 2011. This major infrastructure initiative aims to enhance traffic flow and support the growing economy in the area.

Understanding the Project’s Funding and Purpose

The U.S. 21 Bypass project is part of a broader road improvement effort in the Fort Mill area, which is notoriously congested. The total investment for this project amounts to $410 million, and a significant portion of the funding will come from a proposed new referendum slated for November 5, 2024. This referendum will seek voter approval to allocate additional funds to complete various road enhancements, including the vital widening of U.S. Highway 21 and S.C. Highway 51.

Ongoing Construction and Future Plans

Currently, work is actively underway on parts of the project that were approved in a previous referendum. However, due to rising costs, local transportation leaders have indicated the need to separate the project into phases. They plan to return to voters to secure permission and funding for the final stages of development.

Upcoming Election and Additional Considerations

The upcoming election on November 5, 2024, will not only focus on road improvements but also on substantial school initiatives in the York County area. Voters will encounter a proposal for a $90 million school bond referendum aimed at financing a new middle school, upgrading existing facilities, and transforming the Pinckney Street Learning Center into an early childhood education center.

Early Voting and Registration Deadlines

Residents are reminded that the deadline to register to vote was on October 14, 2024, and early voting will commence on October 21 at six designated locations across the county. Early balloting will continue through November 2, with the exception of October 27.

Local and State Elections on the Ballot

In addition to the referendums, the ballot will feature candidates running for various local, state, and federal positions. Notable races include contests for the U.S. House, state Senate, and multiple school board seats.

• U.S. House of Representatives, District 5: Ralph Norman (R, incumbent), Evangeline Hundley (D)
• State Senate, District 15: Wes Climer (R, incumbent), Sarah Work (Alliance)
• State House of Representatives, District 26: David Martin (R), Matt Vilardebo (D)

School board races will also reflect important changes, with elections for trustees in the York and Rock Hill School Districts, among others. This includes five available seats for the Fort Mill School District, which could bring new leadership and directions for local education policies.

Conclusion

The upcoming election offers York County voters a chance to shape their community significantly. With critical decisions regarding road improvements and educational investments at stake, residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in the electoral process this November. Voter engagement is vital, as these projects and decisions will impact the quality of life in Fort Mill and surrounding areas for years to come.