The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has scheduled a public hearing to review and discuss preliminary plans for the proposed US 501 Aynor Overpass Project.

The hearing has been scheduled for Thursday, June 18, 2009, from 5-7 p.m., at Aynor High School, located at 201 Highway 24 in Aynor. The hearing provides an opportunity to review and discuss with representatives of the South Carolina Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and Horry County the preliminary plans for the proposed project.

The informal portion of the hearing will take place from 5-6 p.m. Displays will be set up in the commons area of the cafeteria. Project team members from SCDOT, FWHA, and Horry County will be available to discuss the proposed overpass. Materials displayed will include maps, drawings, project details, and environmental documents. Comment cards will be available to be filled out and placed in a box or mailed to the SCDOT regarding the project.

From 6-7 p.m., the hearing format will be a more structured, formal process. A brief, formal presentation will be given in the auditorium on the project purpose and need, the schedule and the proposed natural and human impacts to the community. Immediately following the presentation, citizens will have the option to make formal verbal comments regarding the proposed project. Property owners and business owners on or near the project area are urged to attend. Anyone who desires to comment during the formal process must sign up between the hours of 5:00 and 5:55 p.m. Persons not wishing to make formal comments may continue to view the displayed materials until 7:00 p.m.

The proposed US 501 Aynor Overpass project is designed to increase interconnectivity and local mobility and ensure viable access to safe shelter for the citizens of Aynor during hurricane evacuations.

This project is funded through Horry County’s RIDE II Capital Local Option Sales Tax Program.

Persons desiring additional information may contact Mike Barbee, P. E., Program Manager, SCDOT at 803-737-4034. Any persons with disabilities, who require special accommodations to attend the hearing, should contact Karen Davis at 803-737-1549.

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