Charleston Residents Advocate for Road Safety as SCDOT Plans Improvements

Charleston Residents Engage in Road Safety Discussions as Improvements Loom

Charleston, S.C. — Ensuring Safety on Local Roads

Residents of Charleston are coming together to voice their concerns about road safety online and in community meetings, as the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) gears up to make significant improvements along U.S. 17 and Septima P. Clark Parkway. This corridor has seen its fair share of accidents, prompting local workers to take action and devise a plan that addresses these pressing issues.

One concerned resident, Cynthia Odell, has a front-row seat to the dangers of this busy roadway. “I would no more cross that street than I would fly to the moon and I live right there,” she candidly expressed. “Crossing those six lanes of traffic is just not safe for me, so I have to take long detours to get where I need to go.” Cynthia’s experience is echoed by many nearby residents who share her feelings about the need for safer crossings and improved traffic management in the area.

Safety First: Proposed Improvements

SCDOT has outlined a variety of plans aimed at enhancing safety for both pedestrians and drivers. Among the proposed changes are sign and signal upgrades, which can include better traffic signals and clearer road signs. Additionally, there will be a big focus on improving pedestrian crossings, making it easier and safer for folks to navigate the area on foot. Nonetheless, there’s a consensus that speed reduction is equally crucial. Cynthia advocates that addressing the speed of the vehicles passing through the corridor should be a priority as part of the upcoming plans.

“Given that this area is bustling with more people walking and biking than ever before, we really need to keep safety at the forefront of our planning,” shares Kelly Moore, the Director of Public Engagement at SCDOT. Looking ahead, not only are more locals walking through these streets, but the city is also seeing new developments rise, further increasing the volume of foot and vehicle traffic.

With the improvements being slated for construction in 2026, there’s ample time to consider public input. “We want to make sure that residents’ voices are heard,” says Moore. “So far, we’ve just begun the public engagement aspect, and we encourage everyone to share their thoughts and ideas.” Feedback is being welcomed online, giving residents like Cynthia a chance to influence the project.

Community Engagement and Feedback

The community is responding with enthusiasm, eager to feel safe while navigating their neighborhood. Cynthia exclaimed, “I think the more input they receive, the better the project will be.” This collective effort is not just a wish for safer streets; it highlights how deeply engaged residents are in shaping the future of their surroundings.

As the design phase for the roadway improvements continues through 2025, the department has committed to gathering ongoing feedback from locals. It’s clear that the conversations around this project are just getting started, and the optimism in the community is bouncing around. “People want to feel comfortable walking or biking around Charleston. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their neighborhood!” Cynthia says, her voice brimming with hope.

In summary, Charleston is gearing up for safer roads, and the community is playing a vital role in shaping these changes. The efforts by SCDOT reflect a commitment to putting safety first, with public input guiding the way. Residents are encouraged to stay involved as plans unfold and to seize the opportunity to contribute their voices to this important dialogue.