Horry County Approves S.C. 31 Extension Funding Agreement
Horry County Council approved a development agreement and corridor map amendment to help fund and route the S.C. 31 extension to the U.S. 17 Bypass.
Why this matters locally
The project establishes a funded corridor to extend S.C. 31 to the U.S. 17 Bypass, addressing long-standing South Strand traffic and evacuation needs while introducing roughly 2,000 new homes to the area.
On Aug. 18, 2026, the Horry County Council gave final approval to a development agreement and an updated official county map to pave the way for extending Carolina Bays Parkway (S.C. 31) south from S.C. 707 to the U.S. 17 Bypass.
The council's decision involves two key actions. First, local officials approved a development agreement with homebuilder Pulte Homes and landowner Myrtle Beach Farms for the long-vacant Pine Ridge tract in southern Horry County. Originally approved for 2,500 homes in 1999, the newly updated agreement caps the development at about 2,000 homes to preserve the highway right-of-way. It also sets aside land to expand the South Strand Recreation Center and extend Scipio Lane past the facility.
Second, the council amended the county's official corridor map to end S.C. 31 directly at the U.S. 17 Bypass, eliminating a previously planned overpass flyover following property-impact concerns raised by local residents.
The funding structure for the new roadway stretch relies on a special tax district tied to the construction of the Pine Ridge neighborhood. The developer is bearing the primary cost of the road segment cutting through its tract, meaning construction dollars will flow in as new homes are built.
Local leaders note that while the deal secures a funded segment through the Pine Ridge land, right-of-way and funding for other sections along the extended corridor remain unfunded. A portion of the project is anticipated to be buildable within the next seven years, though official project costs, exact lane counts, and formal construction start dates have not yet been released.
During public discussion, residents from nearby communities, including Surfside Beach, raised questions regarding traffic, noise, and potential stormwater runoff into surrounding areas. County officials stated that stormwater retention ponds will meet county engineering standards and that a formal sound study will determine whether noise barriers are required.
South Strand commuters and nearby residents should anticipate future public announcements regarding the completed sound study, drainage planning, and upcoming county meetings as the corridor development progresses.
Quick facts
- Action: Development agreement and corridor map approved
- Location: Extension from S.C. 707 to U.S. 17 Bypass
- Key Feature: Flyover removed; road terminates at U.S. 17 Bypass
- Funding Model: Special tax district tied to Pine Ridge development
- Housing Impact: Development capped at approximately 2,000 homes
Community brief · prepared from MyrtleBeachSC News material · original source
