Artist Champions Waccamaw River Beauty in Highway Debate

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The Horry County Transportation Tax and the Fight for the Waccamaw River

Horry County is currently working on a transportation tax initiative aimed at funding major road projects, including the proposed extension of South Carolina Highway 22. This new highway has sparked significant debate, as conservation groups are actively opposing several routes that could potentially impact the Waccamaw River and the National Wildlife Refuge.

Artist Mary Edna Fraser is using her creative talents to draw attention to the natural beauty of the river, which could be threatened by the highway's construction. "We're so lucky in South Carolina to have this," she said. "All of this rural feeling that you have would be destroyed."

Fraser's work captures the essence of the Waccamaw River at Bucksport Marina, a historic farming community where the Intracoastal Waterway and Waccamaw meet as they flow toward Winyah Bay. Her paintings serve as a visual reminder of what could be lost if the highway project moves forward.

Engineers estimate that the highway could impact anywhere between 14 and 325 acres of wetlands, raising concerns about the environmental consequences of the project. "This is a way to bring people into what is at stake," Fraser explained. "And maybe people realize there are a lot of things we don't have control over, but we have control over this as a community."

Fraser dedicates 12 hours a day to painting, capturing the river's beauty in her artwork to raise awareness about the potential damage the highway could cause. "This is so gorgeous. Everything here is like an earth prayer to me," she said. Her art serves as a powerful call for conservation, urging the community to protect the landscape.

"This we can control. If we can keep the highway out of here, then we can protect what we hold dear," Fraser added.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is currently drafting an environmental impact statement (EIS) for the SC 22 extension. Community meetings regarding the EIS are expected later this year, providing an opportunity for residents to voice their concerns and opinions.

Despite the ongoing discussions, there is no clear timetable for the road's construction. Two years ago, 16 alternate routes and a no-build option were revealed for the project, highlighting the complexity of the decision-making process.

Key Concerns and Community Response

• Environmental Impact: The proposed highway could affect a significant amount of wetland areas, raising concerns about habitat destruction and water quality.
• Cultural Significance: Bucksport Marina and the surrounding area hold historical and cultural value, making the potential loss of these spaces even more distressing.
• Public Involvement: The community is encouraged to participate in upcoming meetings to ensure their voices are heard during the EIS process.
• Art as Advocacy: Artists like Mary Edna Fraser are playing a crucial role in highlighting the importance of preserving natural landscapes through their work.

As the debate over the SC 22 extension continues, the community remains vigilant in its efforts to protect the Waccamaw River and the unique environment it supports. The outcome of this project will not only determine the future of the highway but also shape the landscape and legacy of the region for generations to come.