MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (AP) - As a U.S. representative, Mark Sanford opposed extending Interstate 73 to near Charleston. His spokesman says he's still against the idea now that he is governor.

Proponents of extending I-73 have now focused on ending the highway to Interstate 26 in Berkeley County to help bring more development to the Lowcountry and tourists to the Grand Strand.

The highway was originally planned as a Detroit-to-Charleston road, but then-U.S. Rep. Sanford had its southern end changed to Myrtle Beach with a spur running to Georgetown.

Opponents said the road would damage historical or environmentally sensitive lands in Charleston and Georgetown counties.

Sanford hasn't changed his mind since he moved to the Gov.'s Mansion, spokesman Will Folks said.

Sanford's position is the same as it was during his time "in Congress when he had the law changed," Folks said.

Building I-73 still is a long way off. The road received $3 million in planning money in this year's federal budget.

Information from: The Sun News