Charleston County Approves $3 Million Road Safety Project

News Summary

Charleston County has awarded a $3 million contract for the Woodland Shores Road Complete Streets and Maybank Highway Midblock Crossing Project. This project aims to enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers by adding sidewalks, improving drainage systems, and implementing a new mid-block crossing. Funded through federal and state contributions, construction is set to begin in the next six to eight weeks, with a focus on improving road infrastructure and community engagement.

Charleston County Greenlights $3 Million Safety Enhancement Project

In a significant move towards improving road safety and connectivity, Charleston County Council has awarded a contract worth over $3 million to Gulf Stream Construction Company, Inc. for the Woodland Shores Road Complete Streets and Maybank Highway Midblock Crossing Project. This project aims to enhance the safety infrastructure for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers in the region, making travel safer for everyone.

Transforming the Streets for Better Mobility

The ambitious undertaking will involve the addition of approximately 5,500 linear feet of new sidewalks along Woodland Shores Road and Maybank Highway. These newly constructed sidewalks will provide safer passageways for pedestrians and cyclists, promoting an active lifestyle while maintaining safety on the busy streets.

In tandem with sidewalk improvements, the project will also see the installation of about 5,000 linear feet of enhanced stormwater drainage pipes. This vital infrastructure upgrade is set to address persistent flooding issues, ensuring that rainwater is effectively diverted away from critical roadways and pedestrian paths. Such advancements are instrumental in preventing hazardous conditions that can arise from heavy rainfall.

A Focused Approach to Safety

One of the key features of the Woodland Shores Road project is the introduction of a new mid-block crossing on Maybank Highway, a crucial step in enhancing pedestrian safety. This crossing will boast high-visibility flashing Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons, alerting motorists of pedestrians needing to cross. Additionally, a center island refuge will be constructed, providing a safe stopping point for pedestrians, allowing them to navigate the busy highway with greater ease.

To further bolster safety efforts, a raised landscaped median with fencing will be implemented. This will effectively deter unsafe crossing behaviors and provide a visual barrier between opposing traffic flows, thereby reducing the chances of accidents.

Funding the Safety Revolution

The financial backing for the project comes from multiple sources including $2.9 million in federal funding acquired through a CHATS grant, $731,000 in state gas tax funds from the Charleston Transportation Committee, and $18,611.68 from the Transportation Sales Tax Annual Allocation Program. This collaborative funding approach not only underscores the importance of the project but also reflects a unified commitment to improving transportation safety within the community.

Community Engagement and Construction Timeline

six to eight weeks, marking the start of a much-awaited transformation in the area.

This project represents a significant leap forward in addressing the long-standing safety concerns in the region, showcasing the county’s dedication to fostering a safer environment. As the construction timeline approaches and plans unfold, the new Woodland Shores Road and Maybank Highway enhancements are set to change the landscape of local travel for the better.

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Additional Resources

• Charleston Business: Military Shipbuilder Acquisition
• Wikipedia: Charleston County, South Carolina
• Post and Courier: Palmetto Commerce Interchange Update
• Google Search: Charleston County Improvements
• Count on 2: Charleston County Educational Budget
• Google Scholar: Charleston County Education
• Charleston Business: Palmetto Commerce Interchange Update
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston, South Carolina