SC board approves settlement over N. Charleston rail yard - Live5News.com | Charleston, SC | News, Weather, Sports

By By SEANNA ADCOX
Associated Press

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP/WCSC) - A state financial oversight board has approved a land swap and payment deal designed to resolve all lawsuits over providing rail access to the Port of Charleston.

The five-member Budget and Control Board voted unanimously Wednesday to accept the settlement worked out between the Department of Commerce and North Charleston. The North Charleston City Council approved it Tuesday.

Commerce Secretary Bobby Hitt says the settlement represents the start of building an intermodal rail yard that's critical to the port's expansion and attracting businesses statewide.

The deal involves several land transfers and the agency's rail division paying $8 million over four years.

The state ends up with about 280 acres after buying land from the city and giving back waterfront property the city intends to use for recreation and residential development.

Mayor Keith Summey will provide more details about what the settlement means for North Charleston during a meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday at North Charleston City Hall.

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