SC withdraws I-526 extension funding, dooming destructive project

State revokes authorization after decisive failure of sales tax referendum

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Monday, South Carolina’s Joint Bond Review Committee formally revoked authorization and funding for the I-526 or “Mark Clark” Extension after Charleston County voted down a transportation sales tax referendum to fund the $2.3 billion dollar project. 

Groups like the Coastal Conservation League and Southern Environmental Law Center have fought the I-526 Extension project for years, citing its destructive impacts on communities, wetlands, and waterways.

“This was a project conceived of in the 1960s that was only going to worsen today’s traffic problems,” said Chris DeScherer, SELC South Carolina Office Director. “We look forward to turning the page on this outdated and harmful project and working to support more effective solutions for the region moving forward.”

While the project could be revived again, the JBRC decision makes the possibility much more unlikely.

“This is a great moment for Charleston County voters who—by a two to one margin—made it perfectly clear they don’t want this project that would harm communities, pollute the environment, and induce sprawl and overdevelopment,” said Faith Rivers James, Executive Director of the Coastal Conservation League. “We know there are tangible roadway projects that will ease traffic without compromising our environment and the well-being of our sea islands. As we move forward and away from this project, we are committed to working toward those.”