During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the impact of flooding on local infrastructure and emergency preparedness. A representative highlighted the challenges faced by residents due to heavy rainfall, particularly noting that a newly constructed school on Bacon's Bridge was surrounded by water, rendering it inaccessible for emergency shelter use. The representative emphasized the importance of situating schools on higher ground to ensure they can serve as shelters during emergencies, especially as the population in the area continues to grow.
The discussion also touched on the state of local roads, with multiple routes, including Highways 26, 78, and 601, currently closed due to flooding. This situation has raised alarms about the community's ability to evacuate in emergencies. The representative pointed out that while schools are designated as shelters, their effectiveness is compromised if residents cannot reach them.
Additionally, concerns were voiced about ongoing transportation projects, particularly the delayed improvements on Orangeburg Road, which have seen two fatalities in recent years. The representative criticized the timeline for these improvements, stating that no work is expected to begin until 2030, despite the urgent need for safer roads. The meeting underscored a call for immediate action and better prioritization of infrastructure projects that directly impact the safety and accessibility for residents in the area.