40-Mile Loop Proposed for Bike Weekend Traffic

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (AP) _ Grand Strand officials are proposing a 40-mile, one-way traffic loop to control crowds and traffic during the Memorial Day weekend that coincides with the Atlantic Beach Bikefest. Three people were killed and seven wounded in shootings last Memorial Day weekend and local media outlets report that officials have been working on a safety plan. Traffic would head south on Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach and then west to the Carolina Bays Parkway. Drivers would have to drive north to North Myrtle Beach before again heading south on U.S. 17. The loop would be in effect between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. each night. North Myrtle Beach Mayor Marilyn Hatley says the plan simply shifts traffic issues to her city and drivers should be directed south before reaching North Myrtle Beach.