Richland County voters have chosen to extend the County’s 1 percent special sales and use tax, first imposed in 2012, which will continue to fund transportation infrastructure improvements throughout Richland County.

With the current Transportation Penny expected to reach its maximum revenue of $1.07 billion in late 2026, County Council authorized a referendum that, if passed during the 2024 general election, would continue the collection of Penny funds for 25 years or until a maximum revenue of $4.5 billion is collected, whichever comes first.

“My colleagues and I recognized the need for future transportation infrastructure funding for our growing County and unanimously approved presenting voters with the 2024 Penny Referendum for consideration,” said Richland County Council Chair Jesica Mackey. “We are grateful Richland County residents agree with this solution for future funding and support the continuation of the Penny to fund our roads and The COMET.”

The 2024 Transportation Penny will serve as an extension of the 2012 Penny rather than an additional tax. The $4.5 billion generated will benefit community investment (48 percent), County advancement (30 percent), and COMET enhancement projects (22 percent).

What’s Next?

The successful vote means Richland County will be able to move forward with projects identified in the transportation needs assessment conducted earlier this year. The needs assessment list can be viewed here.