WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today announced the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) received a nearly $40 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

SCDOT will construct a new interchange to facilitate access to business development in Rock Hill and the new Carolina Panthers practice facility. This enhanced infrastructure will drive economic development in the region, facilitate expansion along the I-77 corridor, and promote the safety of the region by addressing the increase in traffic.

“This is great news for South Carolina. The Department of Transportation has just awarded $34.6 million to assist with the development of the Exit 81 interchange that will allow the Carolina Panthers headquarters to be located in York County,” said Senator Graham. “I very much appreciate Secretary Chao’s decision to award this money and all that Governor McMaster, Senator Scott, and Congressman Norman have done to make this project a reality. This will be a game changer for the economy in the York county region. I look forward to making the project a reality.”

“When we can count on our federal partners to join Team South Carolina in our economic development efforts, it shows the world that our state has what it takes to deliver results for South Carolinians,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “Secretary Chao’s decision to make this important investment, coupled with Secretary Hall and SCDOT’s tireless efforts, will result in an even stronger York County economy.”

“South Carolina is a state focused on economic revitalization and this grant puts us solidly on a pathway to greater economic viability,” said Senator Scott. “Thank you to Secretary Chao for this generous grant, and I look forward to welcoming the Panthers to Rock Hill.”

“I could not be happier to see the Carolina Panthers moving their headquarters and practice facilities across the state line into South Carolina,” said Congressman Norman. “The new Exit 81 interchange off I-77 will help make that a reality, and it won’t be long before this part of York County is completely transformed with new businesses, new homes, new jobs, and new families. I want to thank Secretary Chao for awarding this grant, along with Governor McMaster, Senator Graham and Senator Scott for their tremendous efforts in this endeavor. I also want to thank and congratulate all the state and local officials who worked tirelessly to help fulfill the Panthers’ vision of ‘Two States, One Team.’”

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