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"I am a resident of Goff Avenue I am not a prisoner of Goff Avenue"; University and residents at odds over road closure

The city of Orangeburg tabled their third reading of an ordinance that permanently closes a section of Goff Avenue at Claflin University.

ORANGEBURG, S.C. — Several Orangeburg residents will have to wait a little longer before they learn what will happen to the street in front of their home.

City leaders put off the transfer of Goff Avenue from South Carolina Department of Transportation Department to Claflin University after push back from residents.

The city of Orangeburg tabled their third reading of an ordinance which would allow a permanent closure of a section of Goff Avenue. 

There are two homes that would be impacted. 

The city council heard pros and cons from Claflin University representatives and residents. 

The proposal would allow the university to close Goff Avenue from Magnolia Street to Clark Street and put up a gate at each end. 

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Claflin representatives said in a statement that this is necessary because of safety.
 
"Our aim is to address the issues on Goff Avenue,” said University representatives. “By actively managing the roadway and collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies in Orangeburg."

Norma Murdaugh is a homeowner within the proposed closure, she says her home has been in her family for over eighty years. 

"I do not want my street blocked off, I am a resident of Goff Avenue I am not a prisoner of Goff Avenue,” said Murdaugh. “Goff avenue is a community, I've been here all of my life it's a community."

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Murdaugh says the proposed closure will make it harder to get to her home. 

"If I have a party here or if my other relatives come same thing,” said Murdaugh. “They have to stop at Goff give some kind of identification then come to my property you're restricting my movements." 

Although the date has not been set yet Claflin University and the residents on Goff have agreed to sit down for a discussion about plans moving forward. 




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