I’ve always believed that leadership isn’t just about identifying problems — it’s about working toward real solutions. On Folly Beach, parking and traffic have long been challenges for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.
When a parking study showed that many traffic issues were caused by drivers searching for spaces, I worked to find a solution. Drawing on my background in software development, GIS mapping, and traffic systems, I built a tool that simplifies parking and supports the very businesses that make Folly unique.
That’s how the Folly Parking App came to life as a free, community-driven solution that I developed and maintain at no cost to the City or taxpayers. The app makes it easier for visitors to find parking, helps reduce unnecessary traffic, and, just as importantly, drives customers directly to Folly’s local businesses.
Every time someone opens the app, they’re also introduced to local restaurants, shops, and service providers. Since launch, the app has logged 19,842 page views, displayed 23,988 ads, and generated 2,830 total ad clicks. That’s thousands of new connections between visitors and our local economy — all created through a free, homegrown initiative designed to keep Folly thriving.
A Practical Solution That Works
The Folly Parking App gives users the ability to:
- • Find available public and private parking quickly and easily
- • Get turn-by-turn directions to reduce circling and confusion
- • View live traffic alerts before entering the island
- • Discover local businesses, thanks to integrated, clickable ads that promote Folly shops and restaurants
By improving access and awareness, the app helps reduce congestion, keeps traffic moving, and boosts the visibility of the small businesses that power our local economy.
A Model for How I Lead
I didn’t build this app for recognition or compensation. I built it because when I see a problem, I believe in finding a solution, one that’s practical, cost-effective, and benefits the entire community.
That’s how I approach every challenge facing Folly Beach: see the problem clearly, study the data, and deliver a solution that works. Whether it’s stormwater management, parking, or economic resilience, we can use innovation and collaboration to keep Folly livable, balanced, and thriving.
