Overcoming Challenges, Driving Progress

A Message from Secretary Powell

This month, Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell shares insights on how SCDOT continues to tackle challenges head-on and deliver results. From storm recovery efforts to managing multiple projects that support South Carolina’s rapid growth, our team remains committed to excellence. See how we’re making progress and keeping our state moving forward.

Progress on US 76/378 Bridge Replacement:

One Lane Now Open!

Exciting progress is underway on the US 76/378 corridor! A major milestone has been reached as one lane of the newly constructed westbound bridge over the Wateree River is now open to traffic.

Spanning the Sumter and Richland county line, this bridge is designed to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance safety for travelers. With vehicles now transitioning onto the new structure, drivers can expect a smoother and more efficient commute.

As summer approaches, crews are focused on completing the final elements of the project, including removing temporary crossovers and repaving the boat ramp to ensure seamless connectivity. Both lanes of the westbound bridge are expected to fully open by June, marking another step forward in strengthening South Carolina’s infrastructure.

This bridge replacement is part of SCDOT’s ongoing commitment to enhancing travel conditions and supporting the region’s growth. We encourage motorists to remain alert and drive with caution as work continues in the area.

SCDOT is making key improvements to US 76 (Clemson Hwy) at S-60 (Welpine Road) in Anderson County to enhance navigation, improve safety, and support future growth in the area.

As part of this project, Welpine Road is being relocated to create a more efficient intersection. In the coming weeks, crews will be paving throughout the area and installing a new concrete median to further enhance traffic flow and safety.

Construction is progressing steadily, and the project is on track for completion later this year. Drivers are encouraged to stay alert and use caution as work continues.

Improving Downtown Greenville:

Church Street Bridge Rehabilitation Begins

Starting this April, SCDOT will begin a rehabilitation project on the Church Street Bridge over East Broad Street in downtown Greenville. This project will restore the aging bridge deck, upgrade the storm drainage system, and enhance the overall safety and condition of the structure for both motorists and pedestrians.

As work progresses, drivers and pedestrians are encouraged to stay informed and plan ahead. Stay up to date with project details and traffic impacts by visiting churchstbridgerehab.com.

Restoring Connectivity: Fork Hill Road Bridge Replacement Progress

SCDOT is making significant strides in replacing the Fork Hill Road (S-26) bridge over Horton Creek in Lancaster County. As part of SCDOT’s 10-Year Plan, this project focuses on enhancing the safety, reliability, and efficiency of South Carolina’s roadways and bridges.

Originally closed due to age and structural concerns, the bridge is now being rebuilt with modern safety features, including barrier parapets, updated guardrails, and a wider structure to accommodate shoulders. Crews have been hard at work dismantling the old bridge and constructing new drilled piles to support the replacement.

Construction began in June 2024 and is on track for completion in November 2025. Once finished, the new bridge will restore a vital connection between SC 903 and Kershaw, reducing detour times and improving travel for both local and through traffic.

“The main goal is to provide a structurally sound bridge that restores accessibility for the traveling public, especially local residents,” said Adam Huskins, Resident Construction Engineer for Lancaster County SCDOT.

Motorists are encouraged to stay informed on detour updates and exercise caution in work zones as construction continues. Stay tuned for more updates as we work to reconnect communities and enhance roadway safety!

Staying Prepared: SCDOT’s Annual Hurricane Evacuation Route Review

Did you know that nearly 1,600 miles of South Carolina’s roadways serve as critical hurricane evacuation routes? Ensuring these routes are clear, functional, and well-marked is a top priority as we prepare for hurricane season.

For over 20 years, SCDOT has partnered with SCDPS to conduct an annual Hurricane Reconnaissance Mission, a thorough inspection of South Carolina’s 35 designated evacuation routes. Over an eight-day period, teams travel the entire network - from US 501 and US 17 in Horry County to US 278 in Beaufort County and beyond - evaluating traffic capacity, identifying potential bottlenecks, and inspecting approximately 1,000 evacuation route signs for visibility and condition. If any damaged signs are found, SCDOT maintenance crews work quickly to replace them.

This behind-the-scenes work is vital to ensuring safe and efficient evacuations when severe weather strikes. As hurricane season approaches, we encourage all residents and visitors to "Know Your Zone" and be prepared.

Visit hurricane.sc/know-your-zone to learn more about evacuation routes and safety planning.

Our Roads Take You Places:

US 21 through Beautiful Beaufort County

Take a journey down US 21 in Beaufort County, where history, nature, and coastal charm come together to create an unforgettable experience. From the moss-draped streets of downtown Beaufort to the pristine shores of Hunting Island, this scenic route is filled with breathtaking views, rich Gullah heritage, and mouthwatering Lowcountry flavors.

Join us as we explore the sights, sounds, and stories that make this stretch of highway truly special.

Major Overhaul Underway at I-26/I-95 Interchange

If you’ve driven through the I-26/I-95 interchange, situated on the border between Dorchester and Orangeburg counties, you’ve probably noticed significant construction happening. That’s because SCDOT is hard at work on a major improvement project to bring this outdated interchange up to modern standards.

The current design causes delays and congestion, but with new ramp alignments and improved traffic flow, getting from one interstate to the other will be much easier. If you’re driving through the area, expect to see cranes, heavy equipment, and plenty of progress as we move towards a summer 2027 completion date.

This is all part of SCDOT’s bigger plan to improve the I-26 corridor from Charleston to Columbia – so stay tuned as we follow the transformation!

In April 1959, Columbia, South Carolina, saw a major transformation with the construction of the I-126, Elmwood Avenue, and Huger Street intersection, a project designed to improve access to downtown and reduce traffic congestion. As car usage surged in the post-war years, Elmwood Avenue and Huger Street became critical corridors for commuters and businesses, but frequent bottlenecks highlighted the need for a modern solution.

The completion of the project helped alleviate congestion, improve travel times, and support Columbia’s expanding business district. Over the decades, the intersection has remained a critical transportation link, showcasing the city’s continued growth and the impact of strategic planning in shaping urban mobility.

Safety Spotlight: Enhancing Pedestrian Safety

SCDOT is committed to improving safety for pedestrians, cyclists, mobility device users, and transit riders by implementing key crosswalk enhancements across the state. High-visibility markings, improved lighting, and clear signage help increase visibility and guide users to safer crossing locations.

These features can be used alone or in combination, depending on community needs. By incorporating these enhancements in strategic locations, SCDOT continues to prioritize safety for all road users. Stay alert and use designated crossings to help keep South Carolina’s roads safe!

SC Cares is a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting SCDOT employees in times of extreme need. Donations and proceeds from fundraisers assist employees and their families by providing assistance during emergencies.

All orders can be placed online at www.mysccares.org.

Deadline for orders: April 21