York County’s Pennies for Progress: A Path to Safer Roads and Stronger Businesses

In York County, a thriving business community is supported by the infrastructure that keeps the wheels of commerce turning. This November, voters again showed overwhelming support for the Pennies for Progress initiative by passing the referendum with a 71% approval!

A key player in this success? The York County Regional Chamber of Commerce, working hand-in-hand with Citizens for Safer and Better Roads, led a comprehensive educational campaign to ensure voters understood how vital this program is for the region’s future—both for residents and local businesses.

What is Pennies for Progress?

The Pennies for Progress program is a local capital project sales and use tax that funds critical road improvements across York County. Since its inception, the program has raised over $1 billion to widen roads, build new intersections, improve existing ones, and address the county's growing infrastructure needs. Now, with Pennies for Progress 5, the program is set to continue its momentum, ensuring that the county's infrastructure evolves to meet the demands of a rapidly growing population and economy.

Why Pennies for Progress Matters for Business

For the York County Regional Chamber, advocating for infrastructure improvements is a central pillar of supporting the business community. The Chamber, which represents a wide range of local businesses, understands that economic growth is closely tied to the state of our roads and transportation networks.

“Good roads are the backbone of economic development,” says Dean Faile, President and CEO of the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Well-maintained infrastructure is essential for businesses to operate efficiently, reach customers and suppliers, and attract new investments to our region. It also keeps our employees and residents safe, which is paramount.”

Improved roadways are not just about convenience—they are about growth. Pennies for Progress allows businesses to access key markets, reduce transportation costs, and build stronger connections with customers and suppliers. For businesses that rely on delivering goods and services, smoother, safer roads can reduce delays, decrease operational costs, and create a more reliable delivery system. All of this contributes to a more vibrant, competitive business environment in York County.

"As the voice of local business, we understand the direct link between a well-maintained road system and a thriving economy," says Faile. "Our businesses depend on efficient transportation networks to stay competitive, grow, and create jobs. This is why the Chamber has been so active in advocating for Pennies for Progress, and why we are proud to partner with Citizens for Safer and Better Roads."

Citizens for Safer and Better Roads: A Grassroots Campaign for a Stronger Future

The Citizens for Safer and Better Roads group has been instrumental in educating the public on the need for continued road improvements in York County. With an explicit focus on ensuring that voters are fully informed about the referendum, the organization engaged in a comprehensive outreach campaign to communicate the long-term benefits of Pennies for Progress.

The success of the campaign is directly tied to the tireless work and dedication of a diverse group of community leaders who stepped forward to form the Citizens for Safer and Better Roads committee. Through grassroots efforts, the group organized informational events, distributed materials, and held community forums to communicate the long-term benefits of the initiative. Their collective efforts were key in spreading the message about the importance of Pennies for Progress.

A big thank you to the dedicated committee members:

• April Simpkins – Total HR
• Bara Wetherell – Founders FCU
• Brian Butts – Keystone Substance Abuse Services
• Casey Clark – York County Regional Chamber
• Dave Oxendine – Redline Inc
• David Buist – Ferrara-Buist Contractors
• Dean Faile – York County Regional Chamber
• Geri Hopkins – Skyla Credit Union
• Jerry Helms – Community Volunteer
• Kirk Eich – Upper Palmetto YMCA
• Marc Howie – York Electric Cooperative
• Meg Jenkins Locke, Committee Chair – Legacy Health and Wellness
• Melvin Poole – Poole-Bowen Photography
• Mollie Rose – York County Regional Chamber
• Phil Leazer – KCI Technologies
• Rick Lee – Community Volunteer
• Tim Conley – Upper Palmetto YMCA

Looking Ahead: A Future of Safer Roads and Growing Business

As York County grows, the need for continued investment in transportation infrastructure has never been greater.

“The success of Pennies for Progress is a testament to the power of collective action,” says Meg Jenkins Lock. “It’s a reflection of how a community—working together, with shared goals—can build a stronger, safer, and more vibrant future.”

The future of York County is looking brighter than ever, and with the continued support of initiatives like Pennies for Progress, the county is set to remain a hub of business, innovation, and growth for years to come.