This November, during the general election, citizens will get the chance to vote on the non-partisan Pennies for Progress 5 Program. Pennies for Progress is the name of the York County Capital Projects Sales and Use Tax Program that funds road improvements across all of York County.

Pennies for Progress Programs were initiated by York County to provide residents with a safer and more efficient roadway system. The program has been presented to the citizens of York County four times through a referendum, and all four times the referendum has passed. It is important to note that a yes vote in this election does not increase taxes.

Building on this successful track record, the upcoming referendum seeks to continue the momentum and address further infrastructure needs. York County roadways have already benefited from $1 billion worth of improvements through Pennies 1-4 programs!

Passing the Pennies for Progress – Capital Project Sales Tax Referendum means:

• SAFER and BETTER roads
• Money collected in York County stays in York County
• Non-residents who use York County roads will help pay for the improvements
• Faster response times by police, fire, and medical personnel
• Road improvements that will affect needs in every part of the county

Championing Economic Development and Quality of Life

The Pennies for Progress education campaign is being led by Citizens for Safer and Better Roads, a 501c3 non-profit organization created with the express purpose of non-partisan education about infrastructure and funding for the residents of York County.

The York County Regional Chamber, an advocate for the local business community, recognizes the crucial link between robust road infrastructure and economic vitality and supports the Citizens for Safer and Better Roads efforts.

“As the voice of local businesses, the Chamber has long championed initiatives that foster economic development and improve public safety. The Chamber believes in the direct correlation between well-maintained roads and the overall quality of life for York County's citizens,” said Chamber President and CEO, Dean Faile.

A Legacy of Proactive Leadership

York County has demonstrated forward-thinking leadership in infrastructure development. In 1997, it became the first county in South Carolina to leverage new state legislation permitting local governments to fund capital projects through a voter-approved sales tax. This pioneering move set the stage for significant progress in local road improvements.

Since its inception, the program has garnered over $1 billion, funding essential projects such as road widening, intersection improvements, and new road constructions. These investments have been instrumental in keeping pace with the county’s rapid growth and addressing pressing transportation needs that might otherwise have gone unmet.

The Pennies for Progress program has proven to be highly effective.

Looking Ahead

In discussing the upcoming Pennies for Progress 5 Capital Project Sales Tax Referendum, Meg Jenkins Locke, Chair of Citizens for Safer and Better Roads, emphasized the importance of the initiative:

“Approving Pennies for Progress 5 means safer roads, faster emergency response, and a thriving local economy. It’s a commitment to keeping our community connected and enhancing our quality of life. Let’s build on our success and ensure a brighter future for York County together.”

For more information about Pennies for Progress, please visit penniesforprogressyc.com.