Several new developments are underway right now along Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach. Here is a list of some of the most visible projects with construction work happening now:

  • a 25-story Marriott tower at 2004 N. Ocean Blvd. (beside The Breakers)
  • a 26-story Hilton Grand Vacations hotel called “Hilton Ocean 16” at 1600 N. Ocean Blvd. (beside “The Blvd.” that includes Tin Roof and other businesses)
  • a 4-story mixed-use building called “Gateway Galleria” with commercial on the ground floor at 7th Ave. N. and Ocean Blvd. (beside The Diplomat)
  • a mixed-use building including condos at 1400 S. Ocean Blvd. called “Ocean Escape”
  • a 17-story Residence Inn by Marriott at 2605 S. Ocean Blvd.

Two areas not being developed at the moment:

  • a vacant lot between two Atlantica towers near 17th Ave. N.
  • the now-vacant lot at 2nd Ave. N. and Ocean Blvd. where the Victory Motel was torn down

The Hilton Ocean 16 tower and the Gateway Galleria are within the focus area for the Myrtle Beach Downtown Redevelopment Corporation. Eexecutive Director Lauren Clever said the developments are welcome, and they fit with what the DRC believes works for the area. However, the DRC is looking to development more than just accomodations buildings. “The Blvd.” and the “Gateway Galleria” are examples of development that are not accomodations, and Clever said the city is welcoming a variety of options.

“I think we’re in a position where there’s a lot of opportunity and a lot of potential,” Clever said. “There’s all kinds – I mean restaurants and activities, entertainment. I think we’re just at a position where we’re looking at a lot of different ideas and opportunities that could come to Myrtle Beach.”

The DRC still awaits a final master plan for the DRC area to help guide future development. The consultants putting that plan together will present it one more time to the city this week. Then the final report is expected later this month.  

“There’s different situations and scenarios that I think that will be looked at or can be looked at, and you know obviously the city is looking at different opportunities when you see that type of mixed development,” Clever said. “So we’re excited to see what comes.”