By Ted Smith

Contributing Columnist

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As I travel about the county and meet people, the question most frequently asked of me is simply this, “What can we do to get our roads and bridges repaired?” Now, please know this problem is not only in Newberry County. Practically anywhere one travels in South Carolina our streets, highways, ramps, and bridges all need repair.

The costs associated with automotive repairs and accidents caused by the unsuitable road conditions are extremely high in our state and the negative impact these conditions place on the tourism industry is extremely costly. The current tourism dollars coming into our state this year from tourists are estimated at nearly 19 billion dollars, which to most of us is an astounding amount of money.

Here at your Chamber/Visitors Center, our guests often comment on our “pothole rich” highways. So, what can we tell them? That is my dilemma! What can one person do to prevent our beloved state from being named “The Pothole State?” The bottom line is this; it is going to take each of us.

When you think about this problem, the answer is quite simple. I believe we have two options. The first is simply to do nothing, which might well be catastrophic to you, a family member, or neighbor. So, I do not suggest this approach. The second is this option, which I strongly suggest: Our elected leaders must make the decision to fund the needed repairs. It is at this point that each of us must make a decision. Elected leaders need to hear the roar of our discontent. If WE, the people, will take the time to phone, write letters, or email our state legislators, Representative Walton McLeod III as well as Senator Ronnie W. Cromer, asking them to simply address our deplorable, crumbling transportation infrastructure.

Here at your Chamber, we hear you and feel your exasperation. Let’s not wait until we suffer from a bridge failure or another highway disaster, let’s unite and call our elected leaders. Apparently they have not heard us yet! Below is information you will need to address your elected leaders.

House of Representatives

Walton J. McLeod III

P.O. Box 11867

Room 422B

Columbia, SC 29211

email: WaltMcLeod@schouse.gov

phone: (803) 345-1538

Senator

Ronnie W. Cromer

P.O. Box 142

Room 311

Columbia, SC 29201

email: SRulesComm@scsenate.gov

phone: (803) 212-6330

Ted Smith is executive director of the Newberry Chamber of Commerce. Contact him at ted@newberrycounty.org.