March 20, 2025

Nighttime Lane Closures for Ashley River Crossing Bridge Construction

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News Summary

Charleston’s Ashley River Crossing bridge construction begins this week with nighttime lane closures on Highway 17. The project, costing nearly $100 million, aims to improve connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists. Residents should expect ongoing road work and redesigns through 2028 as officials explore further funding for related projects.

Nighttime Lane Closures to Begin for Ashley River Crossing Bridge Construction in Charleston

Construction Progress Begins with Road Closures

In an exciting development for Charleston residents, the construction of the highly anticipated **_Ashley River Crossing bridge_** is set to officially kick off with nighttime lane closures starting Wednesday night. According to the City of Charleston, in coordination with the South Carolina Department of Transportation and Mastec-Civil, significant closures are scheduled to take place as the project moves forward.

Drivers heading north on **_Highway 17_** should prepare for inconvenience, as three right-hand lanes of the bridge will be closed from **_10:00 p.m._** on Wednesday, **_March 19_**, through to **_6:00 a.m._** on Thursday, **_March 20_**. Authorities are urging drivers to exercise **_extreme caution_** while navigating through the work zone during these hours.

Investment in Accessibility and Safety

The Ashley River Crossing bridge project is not just any ordinary construction; it comes with a staggering budget of nearly **_$100 million_** aimed to provide a connective pathway for pedestrians and cyclists between the **_West Ashley_** area and the **_Charleston peninsula_**. The bridge construction was ceremoniously announced at a groundbreaking event held beneath the U.S. Highway 61 overpass, marking a monumental step towards enhancing local infrastructure.

Originally estimated to cost around **_$22 million_**, the project has seen expenses balloon due to rising material costs and inflation, now nearing **_$95 million_**. A significant portion of funding—approximately **_$73.7 million_**—is derived from federal grants, alongside financial contributions from Charleston County, the state, and **_MUSC_**.

Design Changes and Future Enhancements

Ongoing design revisions proposed by city officials, including enhancements such as the elevation of the bridge’s landing platform to improve accessibility, will likely contribute to further budget increases. These decisions are being met with scrutiny as public interest continues to mount in the area surrounding the project.

The bridge will connect with existing paths, enhancing access to **_Brittlebank Park_**, the city’s marina, and the **_West Ashley Greenway_**. This connectivity aims to provide safety improvements at particularly hazardous pedestrian crossings, like **_Lockwood Drive at Bee Street_**, which have been flagged for their danger to walkers and cyclists alike.

Looking Ahead: City Plans and Funding Exploration

While the bridge promises to be a significant enhancement to pedestrian safety and accessibility, it’s noteworthy that no funds have currently been allocated for the accompanying **_Ashley Riverwalk_** construction, despite plans for its design already in place. City officials are actively exploring various funding sources to cover the additional costs incurred by the recent design changes to the bridge project.

As work on the Ashley River Crossing bridge continues, residents can expect these nighttime lane closures to be only the beginning of a series of updates and enhancements in the area. With completion expected in **_2028_**, community members are encouraged to stay informed as the project progresses, potentially transforming the way residents and visitors alike navigate Charleston’s diverse landscape.

As construction kicks off, Charleston looks to the future with anticipation and a commitment to improving pedestrian infrastructure, promising a safer and more connected community for all.