Rock Hill Council Discusses Funding for Infrastructure Development on International Drive

In the heart of York County, a pivotal meeting unfolded on August 28, 2025, as members of the Economic Development Committee gathered to discuss critical infrastructure projects aimed at boosting local economic growth. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as committee members navigated the complexities of funding and project timelines.

At the center of the discussions was a request from Jason, a representative from the City of Rock Hill, who sought support for infrastructure improvements on International Drive. This project is designed to unlock three additional economic development sites, a move that could significantly enhance recruitment efforts in the area. However, the path to securing federal funding has been fraught with challenges. Initially, the project was expected to receive support through CMAQ (Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality) funds, but recent guidance from Federal Highway officials indicated that the project was ineligible due to concerns about air quality impacts from new road capacity.

Despite this setback, Jason outlined a new strategy to pursue state funding through an unprecedented $80 million round of site enhancement funds released by the Department of Commerce. This funding is intended for economic development projects across South Carolina, and Jason emphasized the urgency of securing a commitment from York County for up to $1 million to leverage these state funds effectively.

The committee members engaged in a lively discussion about the motion to support this funding request. While there was a clear consensus on the importance of the project, procedural misunderstandings led to the motion failing to gain a second, leaving the committee to regroup and strategize for future meetings. The deadline for the state application looms on September 12, adding pressure to finalize commitments and ensure that York County does not miss out on this opportunity.

As the meeting concluded, the committee recognized the need for collaboration and swift action. The economic development director was tasked with working closely with Jason to iron out the details and present a refined proposal at the next council meeting. The stakes are high, and the potential for economic growth in York County hangs in the balance as officials strive to navigate the complexities of funding and infrastructure development.