Public Meeting Set for May 27 to Discuss Proposed Bridge Closures in Enoree
By: Vareva Harris, Co-Editor | vareva@thewoodrufftimes.com
Residents in southern Laurens County are hopeful that the county will submit an application to the South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank (STIB) for funding through its $250 million dollar set aside Rural Project Program—a critical step toward securing long-overdue infrastructure improvements in the Enoree area.
Residents of the county hope leaders in Laurens County are actively considering the opportunity ahead of the June 15 deadline. If approved, the funding could support significant upgrades to Beaverdam Church Road and Kilgore Bridge Road, both of which serve as vital routes for local residents, school buses, and emergency vehicles.
A community meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 27 at Beaverdam Baptist Church in Enoree to discuss the proposed closure of the bridge on Beaverdam Church Road and the Kilgore Bridge. Local leaders will provide information and hear public input on how these potential closures could impact daily life in the area.The STIB’s Rural Project Program is designed to help rural communities access resources for major transportation projects. To be eligible, a project must have at least $25 million in estimated costs and provide a public benefit in one or more of the following areas: enhanced mobility and safety, promotion of economic development, or improved quality of life and general public welfare.
Community members see the program as a much-needed opportunity. “These roads and bridges are critical to our daily lives,” said Rev. Dr. Catherine C. Evans, lifelong Enoree resident. “We’re hopeful that Laurens County will move forward with an application. This program could provide the resources our community desperately needs.”
If the county proceeds, the application will be reviewed by the STIB Board to determine whether the project qualifies under the South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank Act (S.C. Code Sections 11-43-110, et seq.). Eligibility is the first step before any funding decisions are made.
Residents are encouraged to attend the May 27 meeting at Beaverdam Baptist Church at 5pm to learn more, ask questions, and share their concerns and hopes for the future of transportation infrastructure in Enoree.
