The following is State Senator Ed Sutton's farewell to President Joe Biden as he visits Charleston on Sunday:
"Today marks the final day in office for the 46th President of the United States, Joseph R. Biden Jr. As his presidency concludes, President Biden has chosen to spend his last day here in the Lowcountry—a testament to the unique charm and importance of our region.
Over the past four years, our community has seen significant benefits from the landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which President Biden championed. South Carolina has received an impressive $5.5 billion in federal funding to improve infrastructure and transportation across the state.
Here in the Charleston region, several key projects have been made possible through this historic investment, including:
- Lowcountry Rapid Transit (LCRT): $100 million in Capital Investment Grants funding to modernize and expand public transportation.
- Long Point Road Interchange in Mount Pleasant: A $195 million federal grant, the largest in South Carolina’s history, to connect Interstate 526 with the Wando Welch Terminal. This project will improve traffic flow, reduce neighborhood congestion, and enhance the port’s operations while incorporating noise walls, electronic signage for truckers, and a multi-use path.
- Shipwatch Square Transit Hub in North Charleston: Nearly $26 million from the Federal Transit Administration for upgrades to the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA), including a new state-of-the-art transit hub on Rivers Avenue, seven electric buses, mobile charging stations, and a workforce training program in partnership with Trident Tech.
America is at its greatest when we invest in building infrastructure that improves lives, strengthens communities, and prepares us for the future. I hope future administrations will strive to not only match but surpass the historic improvements we have received over the past four years.
As we bid farewell to President Biden, we express our gratitude for the progress achieved under his leadership and look forward to the continued growth of our region."