A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO REQUEST THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NAME SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY 389 IN ORANGEBURG COUNTY FROM THE TOWN OF NEESES TO THE ORANGEBURG/AIKEN COUNTY LINE "BENJAMIN F. CORBETT MEMORIAL HIGHWAY" AND ERECT APPROPRIATE SIGNS OR MARKERS AT THIS LOCATION CONTAINING THESE WORDS.
Summary
H3972 is a concurrent resolution that asks the South Carolina Department of Transportation to name a portion of South Carolina Highway 389 in Orangeburg County, from the Town of Neeses to the Orangeburg/Aiken County line, as the "Benjamin F. Corbett Memorial Highway." It also requests that appropriate signs or markers be erected along that stretch of road. Because it is a resolution rather than a substantive bill, it does not create a new regulatory program or impose duties on private parties; instead, it expresses the General Assembly’s intent and recognition of an individual’s legacy.
The resolution provides a detailed historical tribute to Benjamin F. Corbett, describing his early life in Orangeburg County, his work as a streetcar conductor, his World War I service, and his advocacy for improved roads in the Sawyerdale/Rocky Grove area. The text emphasizes that Corbett publicly criticized poor road conditions and pushed for the connection and improvement of the old 96 Road, arguing that local residents deserved better access and value for their tax dollars. The measure frames the highway naming as a fitting memorial to his efforts and the eventual improvement of the road he championed.
Impact
If adopted by the Department of Transportation, the resolution would result in honorary signage and an official road designation for a segment of Highway 389 in Orangeburg County. It does not amend the South Carolina Code or alter transportation funding, maintenance obligations, or roadway jurisdiction; its legal effect is limited to requesting commemorative naming and signage. The primary parties affected are the Department of Transportation, Orangeburg County motorists and residents, and the community honoring Benjamin F. Corbett.
Sentiment
The available context suggests broad, noncontroversial support for the resolution. The bill was adopted and returned to the House with concurrence, and there is no record of committee opposition, recorded dissent, or substantive debate in the provided materials. The tone of the resolution itself is strongly favorable and commemorative, presenting the naming as an appropriate public honor for Corbett’s civic advocacy and military service.
Contention
No notable policy contention appears in the provided record. Because the measure is a ceremonial highway-naming resolution, there are no apparent disputes over spending, regulation, or legal rights. Any discussion is likely limited to the appropriateness of honoring Benjamin F. Corbett and the specific roadway segment chosen, but the available materials do not show opposition from legislators, local officials, or affected residents.