House resolution seeks memorial name for Allendale intersection

On January 14, 2026, Rep. Lonnie Hosey filed House Concurrent Resolution 4919 asking the South Carolina Department of Transportation to designate the intersection of U.S. Highways 278 and 301 in the Town of Allendale as the "Petty Officer 1st Class Johnnie Doctor Jr. Memorial Intersection" and to install appropriate signs or markers bearing that name. The measure was introduced in the House and referred the same day to the House Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions.

The resolution, as filed, formalizes a request for a state transportation agency action rather than immediately directing construction or maintenance work. If the legislature adopts the concurrent resolution and the department agrees, the change would be implemented through SCDOT signage placement at the designated junction. The filing identifies the honorific name and the location but does not specify funding sources or a timeline for sign installation.

This type of memorial naming is a common legislative mechanism to recognize individuals whose service or legacy communities wish to commemorate. The inclusion of the rank Petty Officer 1st Class indicates naval service, and the proposed name would visibly associate that service with a prominent crossroads in Allendale. For residents, a dedicated marker can serve as a focal point for community remembrance and local history, and it can affect wayfinding and address recognition for drivers and emergency services.

Institutionally, the immediate referral to the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions places the measure in the panel that routinely considers honorary and commemorative requests. The committee stage will determine whether the resolution advances to the full House for a vote. Because the filing is a concurrent resolution, any final designation typically requires agreement by both chambers before state agencies act on naming requests. Committee action, floor consideration, and concurrence paths will shape how quickly, and whether, the signage is approved.

For Allendale County residents, the short-term impact will be determined by committee scheduling and legislative action in Columbia. The filing opens a window for civic participation: residents can follow committee calendars, contact their representatives, and raise questions about funding, placement, and maintenance of any signs. The county will also want to confirm with SCDOT how a new designation would be implemented on a primary highway junction used by local traffic and through travelers.

Watch the Committee on Invitations and Memorial Resolutions for any hearings or votes on H.4919. If the resolution moves forward, expect follow-up on the timeline for sign production and placement and clarity on who will cover associated costs.