The SCFOR Annual Meeting was held on Thursday, November 10, at the Hall at Senate’s End in Columbia, SC. We talked about the big wins from 2022 and strategies for continued success! Here’s a brief overview of the day, and thank you to all of our sponsors, speakers, and attendees for joining us.
SCDOT Commission Chairman Gene Branham provided us with a Commissioner’s perspective of the SCDOT before introducing Secretary of Transportation Christy Hall. Secretary Hall provided a thorough update on how the agency has evolved to better plan and meet the needs of our growing state, progress to date, and strategies for continued success.
The SCDOT continues to align funding with priorities linked to goals established by the state’s 10-year plan, which aims to repair and improve existing roads and bridges to keep people and freight moving safely and efficiently.
We always enjoy hearing from our friends with the Municipal Association of SC (MASC) and the SC Association of Counties (SCAC). A big thank you to Owen McBride (SCAC), Scott Slatton (MASC), and John Wienges (SCAC) for providing everyone with an update about how local governments are working to tackle infrastructure needs and priorities for the upcoming session.
Newly elected Rep. Gary Brewer (R-Charleston) and Senator Sean Bennett (R-Dorchester) talk about the legislative process, lessons learned from the campaign trail, the 2022 session – and what they expect in 2023.
Senator Bennett reminded everyone that while South Carolina provided some income tax reductions and rebates this year through the budget, the legislature needed to take a comprehensive approach to tax reform – and while this would be a difficult task, it is necessary.
Excellent information on the continued evolution of vehicle technologies and the anticipated growth of electric vehicles from Ben Pierce, HDR’s National Director of Mobility and Operational Technology Services group. It is clear that technology continues to advance, and as it does, it will only continue to transform the infrastructure landscape – impacting everything from design and safety to funding.
Representatives Brandon Newton (R-Lancaster) and Roger Kirby (D-Florence) discuss the state’s progress on infrastructure and how the SC House is working to address utility modernization, workforce, and economic development.