Georgetown, October 16, 2025
News Summary
Georgetown is facing significant business revenue losses due to a prolonged storm water upgrade project that began in February. The ongoing construction has disrupted access for local businesses and led to a 30% decrease in sales for some, particularly during recent heavy rains. A community meeting was held to address concerns over the project’s delays and its impact on the economy, with residents expressing the need for better traffic management during construction.
Georgetown, S.C. Faces Business Revenue Loss Amid Prolonged Storm Water Upgrade Project
The City of Georgetown is currently facing significant business revenue losses as a result of a prolonged storm water upgrade project initiated in February. The project, aimed at alleviating frequent flooding in the city, has led to disrupted access for local businesses and concerns about future earnings.
Over the past weekend, Georgetown experienced heavy rainfall that caused additional flooding in the area, amplifying worries for local entrepreneurs. This storm prompted a community meeting at Georgetown Creamery, where residents and business owners gathered to discuss the project’s delayed timeline and its implications for the local economy.
The crucial intersection of Front Street and Orange Street remains blocked due to the ongoing upgrade, impacting foot traffic significantly and leading to revenue losses for shops in the vicinity. Local business owner Sonny Burgoon reported a 30% decrease in his business revenues since the project began. He further highlighted that many elderly customers are unable to access his shop, exacerbating the financial strain on his business.
The storm water upgrade project, which is set to cost a total of $8.5 million, is noted to be the largest such initiative in Georgetown’s history. Mayor Carol Jayroe reiterated the project’s essential goal of eliminating flooding, even as she acknowledged her limitations in technical expertise related to engineering issues.
The blocked intersection is expected to remain closed until January, raising additional concerns for local businesses about potential hurdles during the busy holiday season. Community members have voiced a need for improved traffic management during the construction period to help mitigate some of the negative impacts on everyday commerce.
City Engineer Orlando Arteaga explained that Georgetown’s historic infrastructure and underground utilities present unique challenges in executing the project. As detailed by Engineer Eddie Hightower, although there are stormwater retention areas designed to accommodate heavy rains, the recent deluge tested their limits, highlighting the inadequacy of the existing drainage systems.
In Bradford Place, neighboring Georgetown, residents faced extreme flooding conditions, with reports of water reaching four feet in some backyards following the severe storms. Many found that clogged drains contributed significantly to the flooding incidents, leading to further frustrations among homeowners and business operators alike.
To address ongoing concerns about drainage, maintenance projects aimed at cleaning pipes and clearing debris from the drainage system have been scheduled for the coming weeks. These efforts are intended to improve future responses to heavy rainfall and to manage stormwater effectively as the upgrade project progresses.
Summary of Key Points
- Georgetown’s $8.5 million storm water upgrade project has caused revenue losses for local businesses.
- The project commenced in February and is the largest of its kind in the city’s history.
- Local businesses report a significant decrease in foot traffic and sales due to ongoing construction.
- Flooding during recent storms has further complicated the situation, prompting a community meeting.
- Maintenance projects are planned to enhance drainage capabilities in the area.
FAQ Section
What is the purpose of the storm water upgrade project in Georgetown?
The storm water upgrade project aims to alleviate frequent flooding in the city.
When did the storm water upgrade project begin?
The project commenced in February.
How much does the storm water upgrade project cost?
The project will cost $8.5 million, making it the largest in Georgetown’s history.
How has the project affected local businesses?
Many local businesses have reported a decrease in revenue due to decreased foot traffic caused by ongoing construction.
When is the intersection expected to reopen?
The intersection of Front Street and Orange Street is expected to remain closed until January.
Key Features Summary Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Start Date | February |
| Cost | $8.5 million |
| Revenue Loss | 30% decrease reported by local business owner |
| Expected Closure | Intersection will remain closed until January |
| Community Concern | Need for better traffic management during construction |
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Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Wikipedia: Stormwater Management
- Count on 2 News
- Google Search: Georgetown, SC flooding
- ABC News 4
- Google Scholar: Georgetown, SC storm water management
- Wilco Sun
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgetown South Carolina flooding
- News Graphic
- Google News: Georgetown, SC storm water project
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