February 19, 2025

Nighttime Lane Closures for Ashley River Crossing Project

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News Summary

As construction continues on the Ashley River Crossing bridge, motorists should prepare for significant nighttime lane closures on US 17 this week. These closures, taking place from 9 p.m. on February 20 to 6 a.m. on February 21, will affect northbound traffic from Albemarle Road to the Lockwood Boulevard exit. The SCDOT is also planning extensive safety improvements on a nearby stretch of US 17, addressing recent crash data and enhancing infrastructure for a safer driving experience.

Nighttime Disruptions Ahead: Lane Closures on US 17

As the *Ashley River Crossing bridge project* ramps up, motorists are advised to prepare for nighttime lane closures on US 17 this week. These closures are essential to the ongoing construction and will impact drivers significantly as they traverse this critical artery in the region.

What Drivers Need to Know

From the hours of 9 p.m. on Thursday, February 20 until 6 a.m. on Friday, February 21, US 17 Northbound will be closed from the intersection of Albemarle Road, extending approximately half a mile north to the exit ramp for Lockwood Boulevard. Law enforcement will be present to ensure smooth operations during these closures, and drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution in the designated work zone.

Travelers commuting through the area can expect delays and are advised to allow for extra travel time. This proactive approach aims to enhance safety measures and construction progress, vital for improving the infrastructure along this heavily trafficked route.

Improving Safety on Savannah Highway

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is not only focused on bridge construction but is also planning extensive safety improvements along a critical six-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 17, from Hughes Road to Wappoo Road. A public meeting recently showcased these safety enhancement proposals, allowing community members to provide valuable feedback.

From 2017 to 2022, there have been over 2,600 crashes reported, leading to 18 unfortunate fatalities in this segment of Savannah Highway. With approximately 40,000 vehicles utilizing this highway daily, the data underline a pressing need for improvements that can enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents.

Proposed Enhancements Unveiled

The proposed safety measures are robust and aim to significantly reduce the potential for accidents. Key suggestions include:

Concrete medians in the center turn lane, which would prevent two-way left turns
Implementation of leading pedestrian intervals
Installation of pedestrian hybrid beacons
Enhancements to crosswalk visibility

The estimated cost for these much-needed safety upgrades stands at $6 million, with funding secured through the federally funded Highway Safety Improvement program. Construction for these crucial enhancements is slated to begin in 2026, paving the way for a safer highway experience.

Main Road Corridor Project Progress

Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing regarding the *Main Road Corridor Project*, aimed at alleviating traffic congestion at the intersection of Highway 17 and Main Road. The Charleston County Council has awarded a construction contract for this project, however, the separate bike and pedestrian bridge has been omitted for the time being. Maintenance issues, coupled with a lack of dedicated funding, led to this difficult decision.

Advocates, including *Charleston Moves*, express hope for future solutions tailored to bike and pedestrian pathways, despite the present setback. Construction activity for the corridor project is expected to kick off by the end of the year. Initially, this project was budgeted at over $195 million in 2016, but due to rising construction costs, that figure has surged to approximately $354 million with overall completion anticipated by the fourth quarter of 2028.

Conclusion

Motorists, take heed! With multiple construction projects affecting US 17, it is **imperative** to stay informed and plan ahead. The forthcoming lane closures and safety improvements illustrate the commitment to enhancing infrastructure in the area, all while aiming to mitigate risks associated with heavy traffic routes. With diligence and patience, drivers can navigate through these local enhancements successfully.