Imagine more opportunities to safely ride your bike or walk in North Charleston, James Island and Johns Island. Think about the desperately needed intersection improvements in West Ashley, especially along Savannah Highway and Ashley River Road. Even consider increased access to recreational facilities in Mount Pleasant. Imagine commuting via I-526 with improvements that have been needed for over 20 years, finally completed. Good daydream, right?

At the risk of sounding like a life insurance commercial, I will tell you that all this and more could be yours for half a penny. Charleston County just needs to know that you’re in.

Charleston County is considering a transportation sales tax (TST) referendum to fund a series of projects related to road improvements, mass transit, dedicated bicycle/pedestrian lanes and the preservation of our green spaces. This would be a continuation, not an increase, of the current TST that is set to expire soon. Keeping up with infrastructure improvements is directly related to our workforce and the quality of life in this region.

In January, Charleston County launched a series of public input meetings to discuss the proposed projects that could be funded as a result of a new TST. Please consider attending one of the upcoming meetings and providing direct input on why these improvements are important to you and your business.

• Monday, February 5: James Island Charter School, 1000 Fort Johnson Rd., Charleston, SC 29412
• Monday, February 12: Moultrie Middle School, 645 Coleman Blvd., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464
• Monday, February 26: North Charleston City Hall, 2500 City Hall Ln., North Charleston, SC 29406

For more information, visit roads.charlestoncounty.org/tst3 or please contact Charleston County Public Works at 843-202-7600 or roads@charlestoncounty.org.

If you would like to know how you can support the Chamber’s efforts to see the Mark Clark Expressway and other improvements happen, please contact me at dcurry@charlestonchamber.org.