Drivers along U.S. 17 Bypass in Myrtle Beach are noticing more construction activity as work accelerates on a major roadway expansion near Myrtle Beach International Airport. The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) confirmed that crews have begun installing storm drainage in the median, marking one of the key early steps in widening the highway.
According to an update shared on SCDOT’s Facebook page, the storm drainage installation is taking place within the grassy median along a heavily traveled section of the bypass. The drainage system will support the upcoming expansion of the roadway, which remains on schedule.
SCDOT Program Manager Marla Watson emphasized that the new drainage work should not create travel issues for motorists. “The drainage work is not expected to cause any delays for drivers,” she said, reassuring residents and visitors who rely on the busy corridor for daily travel.
The expansion project widens the bypass from four lanes to six near the intersection with Fred Nash Boulevard. In addition to the added travel lanes, the project will bring new turn lanes and a concrete barrier wall designed to improve safety by separating opposing traffic flows. Watson confirmed that the multimillion-dollar effort “is currently on time” and expected to wrap up by the end of 2026.
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The $19.3 million improvement initiative affects both northbound and southbound lanes between S.C. 707 and Shetland Lane in Horry County. U.S. 17 Bypass is one of the region’s most important transportation routes, carrying residents, airport travelers, workers, and millions of tourists each year. The widening is intended to alleviate congestion, increase roadway capacity, and improve long-term traffic efficiency along one of Myrtle Beach’s primary travel corridors.
The drainage installation is a critical preliminary step before pavement work begins, ensuring the widened highway can handle heavy rain events common to the Grand Strand. Crews must complete this utility phase before shifting traffic patterns or beginning lane expansions.
Local officials have highlighted the importance of this project as Myrtle Beach continues to grow rapidly. With ongoing residential development, hotel expansion, and rising airport passenger volumes, traffic on the bypass has steadily increased over the past decade.
Transportation planners say the project is part of a larger regional strategy to modernize major roads in Horry County and reduce bottlenecks during peak tourism seasons. While this section of U.S. 17 has undergone previous improvements, this is the most extensive widening to date.
Once finished, the corridor will feature improved traffic flow, upgraded safety elements, and better storm resiliency. The area is prone to flooding during heavy storms, making the new drainage systems especially important for maintaining mobility.
For now, while drivers will see more crews and equipment in the median, SCDOT reiterates that no travel delays are anticipated during this phase. Motorists are encouraged to stay aware of construction zones and follow posted signs as work continues through 2026.
Originally reported by Terri Richardson in The Sun News.
