Myrtle Beach Grand Strand Growth

The Grand Strand is bracing for an onslaught of the best kind. We are days away from 2008, the year Myrtle Beach officials say will be the one that changes the face of the beach forever.
The number of visitors to the Grand Strand is expected to jump from 14 to more than 18 million people. It will start with thousands coming to the Grand Strand in January for the debates and carry over into spring with the completion of two huge projects.
"A lot of the development was local owners and operators investing local money. In 2008, the story is outside money," said Brad Dean, president of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.
Dean also talked about the Market Common development project.
"Along the Grand Strand, it seems that build it they will come truly has been a reality." That reality is 4,000 new housing units at Market Common. One of the most appealing aspects of living at Market Common is that it's designed to feel cozy like your hometown, with well-manicured lawns and sidewalks but with upscale shopping and restaurants. City officials are predicting several thousand people will make this their destination every weekend.
"I think for the first time ever 2008 really will be a 12-month year for our economy," said Dean. That is going to mean a lot more traffic.
"We're doing everything we can to work with the county, the D.O.T., to make sure we have prepared for what problems could come up," that from Myrtle Beach Mayor John Rhodes, who said he is looking at several strategies to handle the traffic increase.
Construction at Hard Rock is right on schedule. At $400 million, it is the largest tourism infrastructure investment in South Carolina. "I'm telling ya' right now, 2008 is going to be an unbelievable year for the beach."
Good weather on our side, you will see both Market Common and Hard Rock Park open right on time. The debates will happen rain or shine.