The City of Conway made headlines in 2022 as leaders changed the city’s name in October, developers sought out rezonings and new businesses opened.

As the city heads into a new year, here are stories to look forward to in 2023.

City projects

Renovations to city hall are expected to be complete by the spring, city officials said, calling the project a minor remodel. That project includes a new coat of paint and refinished floors.

The city hall addition, which was originally a fire station, has had a floor plan redesign that includes a large meeting room and additional offices, which adds security and a new elevator, officials said.

Several ongoing and planned city projects revolve around parks and recreation.

Construction on the Smith-Jones pool is estimated to be done mid-spring and be ready to open in time for Memorial Day weekend. This project involves repairing parts of the pool that were damaged when it floated out of the ground, said John Rogers, deputy city administrator.

The project recently ran into another hold-up due to drain lines underneath the pavement not meeting regulations. Because of that, the cost of the project will go up about $80,000. Council voted Tuesday to up the budget to complete the pool. The total cost is now estimated at $542,000.

“It will have very few remaining parts from the old pool,” Rogers said.

Additionally, construction has started on a disc golf course at the Smith-Jones Community Center, which is expected to be completed in the next few months.

The city is also working on an agreement with Horry County Schools to partner in using the tennis courts at Conway High School, which would save the city thousands of dollars. Rogers said this agreement could be finalized sometime in January.

Upcoming city council election

It’s possible that there could be a special election this year for a Conway City Council seat.

Councilman Alex Hyman, along with Amanda A. Bailey of Myrtle Beach, were qualified and nominated in November by the Judicial Merit Selection Commission for the 15th Circuit court judge position. The election for the judgeship is scheduled for Feb. 1, according to the Judicial Merit Selection Commission.