Charleston County Takes Steps Toward Safer Pedestrian Access in Historic Community
In the quaint and vibrant city of James Island, South Carolina, community leaders are embarking on a significant journey aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety, particularly in a historic African American settlement area. The spotlight is on Sol Legare Road, a route that has, unfortunately, been synonymous with pedestrian accidents and even fatalities over the years.
Understanding the Situation
Residents in this lively community, which is home to nearly 2,000 people, have long expressed concerns about the dangerous conditions for pedestrians along Sol Legare Road. This busy thoroughfare currently has no sidewalk, making it a risky place for individuals to walk, especially considering the speed limits that swing between 35 to 45 miles per hour.
John Martin, a Transportation Project Manager with Charleston County, emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating, “There’s just been too many people that have been injured. Even one fatality is too many, so that’s the main concern.” It’s clear that the community is craving safe spaces for walking, and with the current lack of infrastructure, safety is hard to come by.
The Road to Change
The first tangible step to alleviate these concerns is the planned Sol Legare Community Safety Project, which aims to construct a sidewalk along Sol Legare Road. In recent community meetings, residents have shown overwhelming support for this initiative, highlighting a shared desire for safer routes for pedestrians and families.
With forward momentum since 2021, Charleston County officials are now working to gather the necessary funding to bring this vision to life. This Thursday, the Charleston County finance committee will vote on accepting $1 million from the State Department of Transportation. This funding, nestled within the state General Appropriation Bill, will kickstart plans for what is expected to be a 1-mile-long, 5-foot-wide sidewalk stretching from Folly Road to Chavis Road.
A Long Road Ahead
While this initial funding is a welcome start, it falls short of the $4.5 million originally requested for the project. That larger amount aimed to cover the entire 2.5 miles of roadway and necessary drainage work, from the intersection at Folly Road all the way to the state-owned public boat landing.
Officials are bracing for a lengthy process. Martin explains the importance of proceeding carefully, noting that “The first step is to do the design and to get the permitting. That’s just what we have to do before we can start any construction.” The design phase is crucial; it’s anticipated to take up to two or three years, but community meetings will continue to keep residents in the loop.
Community Engagement
Residents will have multiple opportunities to engage in discussions as the plans unfold. Martin assures the community that their voices will be heard throughout the process, reinforcing the collaborative spirit in which the project is being approached.
In summary, James Island is taking meaningful steps toward enhancing pedestrian safety in the Sol Legare community, a change that many hope will invigorate the area while ensuring the safety and welfare of its residents. This project promises not just a sidewalk, but a pathway to a safer and more connected community.
