HOLLY HILL, S.C. — The Town of Holly Hill is working to reduce flooding risks by clearing ditches ahead of anticipated heavy rainfall.
Mayor Billy Chavis said the town has long struggled with flooding, especially in areas like Sugar Hill. To combat this, the town began a two-month effort to remove debris and clear drains from ditches that have been overgrown or blocked. So far, it has cost $27,000.
“We’ve always had a problem with ditches having restrictions inside of them,” Chavis said. “Overgrowth and debris have caused these issues, and we started an endeavor to clean them in some of the more prone areas.”
Since the town lacks the necessary equipment to clear the ditches, officials contracted a company to handle the work. While the town doesn’t own the roads and ditches—those are the responsibility of Orangeburg County and the South Carolina Department of Transportation— Chavis said something needed to be done to protect the community.
“We’ve identified areas that need attention, and with the budget allocated for this through the health and drainage fund, we’re moving forward,” Chavis said. “It’s important to do right by the citizens of Holly Hill.”
Resident Dianne Bergen expressed relief that action is being taken to reduce flooding. “Over the last year and a half, I’ve seen more maintenance,” she said. “Debris, trees, and even beaver dams clog the ditches. It’s great to see the town working to keep them clear so the water can flow properly. I’m hopeful we can get other areas, like the downtown area, cleared as well.”
The ditch-clearing project is expected to be completed within two weeks.