Council approves measure to continue I-526

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CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) -- The Charleston County Council approved in a 5-4 vote to continue plans to extend I-526.

The decision came after the finance committee voted to maintain control of the project and dozens of people spoke during the public hearing.

Council members Pryor, Summey, Johnson, Rawl and Sass voted for the measure. Council members Condon, Schweers, Darby and Qualey voted against the plan.

READ THE MEASURE: Click here

Earlier in the night in a 5-4 vote, Charleston County Council's finance committee decided to keep control of the I-526 project instead of handing it off to the City of Charleston.

While committee members acknowledged that expanding I-526 is a difficult choice, it was "in the best interest of the county to proceed" with the plans.

However, the vote to keep control of the project happened before the period of public comment.

Council member Elliot Summey said the council now has to turn their attention to finding an engineering firm.

"We are so delighted and proud of the county council decision tonight," said Charleston Mayor Joe Riley. "This is a great victory for the citizens of our community now and in the future."

Stay connected to ABCNews4 for more on this developing story.