DeBordieu Property Owner Rt. Col. Leroy Harrelson, Jr. was in the news last week as one of the dignitaries present for the dedication of the extension of Harrelson Boulevard in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.Harrelson Boulevard’s completion comes roughly a year ahead of the expected opening of an expanded terminal at the airport. That $118 million project will increase the total number of gates in the terminal from seven to 13. Twenty-two local contractors and subcontractors worked on the 1.7-mile long extension, with work beginning in August 2010. “This is a great day for Myrtle Beach and the county,” said Myrtle Beach Mayor John Rhodes.
Mr. Harrelson, the son of the road’s namesake, discussed the history of the city of Myrtle Beach. Turning 90 this summer, Mr. Harrelson recalled moving to Horry County with his family in 1927, when there were only about 300 people living in Myrtle Beach. His father owned a pharmacy when the family first arrived amd was eventually elected Myrtle Beach’s first mayor in 1938.
About the Harrelson Boulevard Extension, Mr. Harrelson said, “This will be tremendous! I think it’s going to be a major artery … very important to the economy of the area. “
