To the Mayor and City Council of Myrtle Beach:

 

We, the undersigned residents of the Old Pine Lakes neighborhood, respectfully request that the City of Myrtle Beach formally pursue the transfer of ownership (deeds) of certain state-owned roads within and surrounding our neighborhood from the South Carolina Department of Transportation to the City. Specifically, Little River Road, 44th Ave (from Little River Rd to Kings Hwy), 45th Ave (from Little River Rd to Boxwood St), Pinewood Rd and Pine Lake Dr (from 38th Ave to 48th Ave).

 

As Myrtle Beach has grown over the years several streets running directly through our residential community remain under state control. These roads experience high traffic volumes and frequent speeding, creating unsafe conditions for residents walking on sidewalks, riding bicycles, jogging, or allowing their children to play outside. Many neighbors have expressed increasing concern about vehicles traveling at speeds inconsistent with a residential environment.

 

In addition, sidewalks along some of these state-maintained roads have been left unrepaired or inadequately maintained, creating tripping hazards, accessibility challenges, and further safety risks for pedestrians.

 

Old Pine Lakes is a well-established residential community where families, retirees, and long-time residents value safety, walkability, and quality of life. Local control of these streets would allow the City to more effectively address community concerns, lower speed limits where appropriate, implement traffic-calming measures, and ensure timely sidewalk maintenance and repair.

 

We respectfully request that the City of Myrtle Beach:

 

1) Formally petition the State of South Carolina to transfer ownership of applicable state-controlled streets within and adjacent to the Old Pine Lakes neighborhood to the City.

2) Conduct traffic studies with the goal of lowering speed limits where appropriate to reflect the residential nature of our community.

3) Implement traffic-calming measures such as signage, crosswalk enhancements, speed feedback signs, or other safety improvements

4) Develop and communicate a clear plan and timeline for sidewalk inspection, repair, and long-term maintenance once ownership is transferred.

 

We believe that placing these streets under local governance will significantly improve neighborhood safety, protect pedestrians, and enhance the overall quality of life in Old Pine Lakes.

 

We respectfully urge the City Council to take prompt and proactive action on this matter.

 

Respectfully submitted,