Richland County votes to extend the Penny Tax

On Tuesday, November 5, Richland County voters opted to extend the County’s 1 percent special sales and use tax, also known as the “Penny Tax,” which has funded transportation infrastructure improvements since its inception in 2012. The renewed tax aims to support vital infrastructure projects over the next 25 years or until a cap of $4.5 billion is reached.

Originally implemented with a maximum revenue target of $1.07 billion, the initial Penny Tax is anticipated to reach this amount by late 2026. In preparation, Richland County Council authorized a 2024 referendum to continue the collection of the 1 percent tax, but as an extension, not an additional levy.

Revenue from the renewed tax will be allocated across three major categories: community investment (48 percent), county advancement (30 percent), and COMET enhancement projects (22 percent). Community investment projects include road maintenance and sidewalk installations, while county advancement funds will improve public spaces and other local infrastructure. Meanwhile, funds designated for COMET, Richland County’s public transit system, will help expand routes, increase service frequency, and implement sustainable infrastructure to support long-term growth and environmental goals in the Midlands.

The approval also authorizes the issuance of $950 million in general obligation bonds to allow for faster project initiation, enabling the county to accelerate key developments identified in this year’s transportation needs assessment. The assessment’s list of priority projects can be viewed on the Richland Penny website at richlandpenny.com.

With voter support, Richland County will be able to advance infrastructure improvements and continue to address public transportation and community needs, a critical component of the county’s long-term growth strategy.

You can also find more information on the Richland County Transportation Penny Facebook page.