Charleston Residents Voice Concerns on Highway Safety

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Traffic on U.S. Highway 17 in Charleston with safety features

News Summary

Charleston residents are encouraged to provide input on proposed safety enhancements along U.S. Highway 17, following alarming crash statistics. The SCDOT aims to reduce traffic deaths and improve roadway conditions, prompting community engagement through comments and a public meeting scheduled for February 13. Local businesses express concerns regarding high traffic volumes affecting access, highlighting the urgency for safer roadways.

Charleston Residents Invited to Weigh In on Highway Safety Enhancements

Charleston, a charming city known for its historic sites and coastal beauty, is bracing for a serious upgrade on a busy stretch of U.S. Highway 17, affectionately referred to as Savannah Highway. The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is on a mission to gather community thoughts and ideas to enhance safety on this vital roadway, having experienced nearly 2,600 crashes and tragically 18 fatalities over the past five years.

Why Safety Measures Are Needed

Spanning a 7-mile stretch from Hughes Road to Wappoo Road, this section of Highway 17 has qualified for the Federal Highway Safety Improvement program. The goal? To cut down on traffic deaths and injuries. Given the soaring traffic incidents linked to the area’s growing population, many residents and local business owners feel that action is urgently required.

The SCDOT is now digging deep into the data, analyzing patterns of vehicle turns and local conditions, to determine the best safety measures to be implemented. With an influx of vehicles hitting the road every year, establishing better safety standards has become a top priority for both officials and community members.

Get Involved!

Starting on January 29, residents will have the chance to share their thoughts. Comments can easily be submitted through the SCDOT website or mailed directly to the Project Manager at the designated address. The SCDOT is eager to hear from everyone about their experiences and suggestions, showcasing how public opinion can shape vital road safety initiatives.

Moreover, an in-person drop-in meeting is scheduled for February 13 at City Church of Charleston along Wappoo Road. This meeting offers a great opportunity for folks to come together, share their concerns, and listen to updates on the safety improvements being proposed.

Local Business Concerns

high traffic volumes hinder customers from reaching their parking lots. It’s a challenging situation, as many locals want to spend time shopping and dining in the area but are discouraged by heavy traffic.

One local business owner has pointed to specific issues such as inadequate pavement and insufficient lighting in certain sections, making conditions even more perilous for customers. The situation is a “crash central,” highlighting the urgent need for change and intervention. With red light violations seemingly on the rise as well, concerns about safety continue to mount.

Proposed Safety Upgrades

In response to these alarming statistics and public outcry, the SCDOT has put forward several proposed safety enhancements. Among them are new pavement markings, crosswalks, pedestrian countdown signals, and improved signage. These measures aim not only to protect motorists but also to create safer crossings for pedestrians and cyclists—something that has become increasingly important as more people venture out on scooters or as pedestrians.

As the community gears up to support the upcoming enhancements, it’s everyone’s chance to participate. The ongoing dialog between the SCDOT, residents, and business owners will be crucial in developing a solution that truly meets the needs of this bustling Charleston area.

Let Your Voice Be Heard

Public comments can be sent through the mail to 955 Park Street, P.O. Box 191, Columbia, SC 29202-0191, ensuring that your voice is included in the conversation. Community input is invaluable for shaping plans that affect daily life for everyone who lives, works, and travels along U.S. Highway 17.

Let’s come together as a community and work towards a safer, more accessible Savannah Highway, ensuring that Charleston continues to be a beautiful and safe place for all.