Conway outlines large stormwater upgrades; multiple road closures planned through spring

City staff told council on Jan. 20 that Conway has received grant funding to complete multiple large stormwater projects with aggressive deadlines and that residents should expect temporary road closures over the next weeks and months.

Mary Katherine Hyman, identified in the meeting as the project lead, briefed council and said several projects tied to a Pine Street/Beatty Street grant must be complete by June. Hyman described a current extended closure at Conway Middle School (expected to reopen by Friday of the week referenced), Elm Street lane closures through Feb. 20, Lakewood and Kingston Lake Drive closures through Feb. 20, and Main Street night lane closures in January–February. She said the Laurel Street closure is scheduled for March 6–13 and portions of 7th Avenue will be closed March–April for drainage work.

Staff emphasized the work will replace and upsize aging stormwater pipes to improve drainage and reduce flooding; they also said contractors will post message boards and staff will increase public outreach. The city administrator noted a separate IRF project at 4th & Laurel is on schedule for February completion and that crews are coordinating with Santee Cooper for utilities work.

Council and staff also discussed culvert settlement under Mill Pond Road near Circle K and plans to repair joints and repave when temperatures permit. Staff will continue to update the public on closures and detours as the projects progress.