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Residents wait to learn where proposed Aynor Overpass will land

Michelle Carolla/WBTW News13
Published: February 13, 2008

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For the past 37 years, Denny Rabon operated his farm equipment supply company right off Highway 501 in Aynor. It just so happens, his property could be the site of the proposed Aynor Overpass.

The South Carolina Department of Transportation said it's considering two locations. One is around the 501 and Webster Road area, near Rabon. The other is near Rt 319 and St. Johns Road.

Rabon is glad to see some improvements coming to Aynor. But, he's not happy that the proposed overpass could cut a mile long stretch right through the middle of his property. So far, the estimated cost for the project is $46 million dollars.

“What they're saying they're going to do, once they put this bridge, as long as the asphalt is touching that bridge, they can keep refinishing streets, street lights, sidewalks, whichever direction it goes,” said Rabon. He thinks $46 million dollars is a lot to spend, but if it could improve the area, he’s all for it.

That's what the SCDOT told News 13 they plan to do. The money will also cover road improvements, street lights and widening. The road is meant to provide residents a way to cross over 501, completely avoiding it.

The DOT said the project is still in its study phase. They plan to take their findings to the citizen’s oversight committee for input from residents.

The Aynor Overpass is part of Horry County's RIDE II program. The program is funded by a one-cent sales tax. A county spokesperson said a committee decided on the projects several years ago, after considering dozens of roads. Voters approved the list.